In case you missed the 2026 Poetry Out Loud National Finals, you can watch some intrepid high school students tackle recital before a live audience. According to the emcee, 130,000 students competed for 54 state slots. You can watch it on the link above. If really curious, you can also research what poems were selected and suggested for the contest at https://poetryoutloud.org/search/?type=poems. [In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the 2025-2026 Poetry Out Loud program focused on poems that celebrate the rich tapestry of American history and culture.] I would strongly encourage watching the incredible performances. -daithÃ
Eason DeMarsico-Thorne, a student at Brattleboro Union High School, won the 2026 Poetry Out Loud Vermont State Finals.