The annual Poetry Out Loud (POL) competition offers more than just a chance to win awards. It’s an opportunity to build confidence, engage in public speaking skills, and connect with the power of poetry. Now in its 21st year competing, Niles North’s competition is set to take place on Thursday, Jan. 30 after school in the New Commons.
POL is a national performing arts program that has been inspiring high school students for 20 years. Participants memorize and recite poems from the POL website, bringing different interpretations to best showcase the emotions and meanings of their chosen poems.
This year, students competing at school level must come with two poems from the POL website. Winners will advance to the regional contest on Wednesday, Feb. 12, at the Poetry Foundation in Chicago, and potentially to the Illinois State Contest on March 17 in Springfield, Illinois. The National will take place in Washington D.C. with additional details to be announced soon.
Courtney Hanson, a freshman English teacher and host of North’s POL competition, believes that the program is an incredible opportunity for all students regardless of experience. It not only helps build confidence but fosters a sense of unity and collaboration among students.
“I enjoy the entire process of POL; starting with students finding poems that speak to them, the memorization process, and then watching as they grow as public speakers and performers,” Hanson said. “I also love being a part of a competition that is accessible to all students. There are hundreds of poems and poets to choose from, so there really is something for everyone. Most students who participate in the school competition do not have a theater or public speaking background.”
The competition takes a lot of determination and hard work, as students have to memorize their poems and really focus on how to deliver them with emotion and meaning. It’s not always easy, but student’s make sure to put in their best efforts.
“It turns out memorizing the words to a Katy Perry song is far easier than memorizing a 17 line poem,” an anonymous sophomore said. “I never thought this would be the case, but geez Louise it was difficult.”
POL provides students with an opportunity to develop public speaking skills, engage with poetry, and compete at high levels. Through dedication and hard work, participants will not only gain confidence but also develop important skills that extend beyond the competition itself.
