MSA Student from Greenville Wins State Poetry Out Loud Competition
Elayjah Earls from Greenville, a senior in the literary arts program at the Mississippi School of the Arts (MSA) in Brookhaven, took first place honors at the state Poetry Out Loud competition hosted by The Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC) and held at Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB) in Jackson, MS.
As Mississippi State Champion, Elayjah will advance to the national finals, which are planned to take place in Washington, DC, April 27 – 29, 2026, to compete for the National Champion title and $20,000 grand prize.
Poetry Out Loud was created by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation for students in grades 9 – 12. Since 2005, it has helped students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and improve their reading comprehension scores while learning about their literary heritage.
Through the Poetry Out Loud curriculum, teachers guide students to a deeper, richer understanding of the power of language and literature by helping them develop a personal relationship with great poems. An added benefit is that Poetry Out Loud offers all students the opportunity to compete for awards, prizes, and recognition.
In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the 2025-2026 Poetry Out Loud programs focus is on poems that celebrate the rich tapestry of American history and culture.
Poetry Out Loud National Recitation Contest begins at the classroom level. Winners advance to school-wide contests, regional contests, state finals, and, ultimately, to the National Contest held in Washington, D.C. The State Champion receives $200 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington to compete in the National Contest. The Champion’s school receives a $500 stipend for the purchase of poetry materials. At the National Contest, contestants can win $1000, $5000, $10,000 or the grand prize of $20,000.
Pictured: David Lewis, Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission and Elayjah Earles, 2026 Poetry Out Loud State Champion.