Erskine Academy student to participate in Poetry Out Loud State Finals

Erskine Academy

As Poetry Out Loud celebrates its 20th anniversary, Maine’s most talented high school students took the stage at the Poetry Out Loud State Finals, on Monday, March 3, at 5 p.m., at the Waterville Opera House. This milestone year honors two decades of inspiring students across the country to explore poetry through recitation, building confidence, public speaking skills, and a lifelong appreciation for literature. This year, 11 outstanding student poets from across Maine have advanced through school and regional competitions to compete for the state title. Erskine Academy is pleased to announce that freshman Stella Martinelli, of Whitefield, has advanced to the State Finals competition.

The Maine State Champion will receive a $200 prize and advance to the National Finals in Washington, D.C., where they will compete for $50,000 in scholarships and school stipends. The state champion’s school will receive $500 to support poetry materials, while the first runner-up will be awarded $100, with $200 for their school. The Poetry Foundation administers all monetary prizes and travel arrangements for national finalists.

This free and public event was live streamed by Portland Media Center on the Maine Arts Commission Facebook page, with a final produced broadcast available later in the year.