Thetford Academy’s 17th Annual Poetry Out Loud Recitation Contest Scheduled for Feb. 4
January 27, 2026
On Thursday, Feb. 4, 2026 at 3:15 p.m. in the Martha Jane Rich Theater, Thetford Academy will host its 17th annual Poetry Out Loud recitation contest. Poetry Out Loud is “a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry,” and the recitation event has become a TA tradition. Poetry Out Loud not only exposes students to poetry, but also helps them master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about literary history and contemporary life.
Thousands of Vermont students participate in Poetry Out Loud each year, starting in the classroom, moving to the school level, the state level – and for top competitors, culminating on a national stage. Student contestants select a poem from the Poetry Foundation‘s website, which they then memorize and recite for a team of community judges. Performances are evaluated on physical presence, voice and articulation, dramatic appropriateness, evidence of understanding, and overall performance.
The winner of Thetford Academy’s contest next Thursday will be invited to compete in Vermont’s Poetry Out Loud semifinal contest at the Barre Opera House, and from there, have a chance to compete in the state final at the Flynn Theater in Burlington. TA’s Poetry Out Loud event is open to the public and community members are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Emily Silver at [email protected].
Featured photo: Mary Bosco ’24 advances to POL finals after her performance at the Barre Opera House in 2023