Poetry Out Loud is a national poetry recitation competition for high school students that begins in the classroom and culminates in the National Finals in Washington, DC. Drawing upon elements of spoken word, theater, and slam poetry, Poetry Out Loud cultivates an appreciation of poetry that goes beyond the page. In Arizona, students compete at the classroom, regional, and state levels. Regional competitions were held in February and the state competition will be held at Arizona State University in Tempe on Saturday, March 8. We're delighted to announce the 2025 Arizona state finalists for Poetry Out Loud, who will compete on that day!

Northern Region Competitors

Kaleo Pearson, Coconino High School

Iolani Sutton, Sedona Red Rock High School

Glenna Barnes, Sedona Red Rock High School

Central Region Competitors

Liam McLaughlin, Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy

Andrew Watson, American Leadership Academy Queen Creek High School 

Aristide Philippakis, Brophy College Preparatory

Southern Region Competitors

Anllely Corral, Flowing Wells High School

Isabel Teran, Sahuarita High School

Yuliana Alvarez, Rio Rico High School

Congratulation to all the state finalists, as well as all Arizona POL participants.