The Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) has announced the winner of the 2024 Poetry Out Loud state championship, a national competition that encourages high school students throughout the U.S. to learn about poetry through memorization and recitation of the written word.
Coming away victorious in Georgia was Atlanta student Tiana Jones, a sophomore from Whitefield Academy in Cobb County. Lindsey Ponder, from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, was named the runner-up.
For winning the state competition, Jones earned a first place prize of $200, as well as a $500 certificate that will go towards adding new books to her school.
In addition, Jones will represent the state of Georgia at the Poetry Out Loud national finals, which is slated to take place in Washington D.C. from April 30 to May 2.
“This Poetry Out Loud experience has exceeded my expectations!” said Jones.
“Just being surrounded by such talented peers placing their interpretations of these poet’s works on full display was a joy to be a part of. I’m so grateful to be accompanied by such a supportive family and I pray for many more blessings to come our way. I look forward to meeting and competing with each State champion as we all continue on to Nationals.”
Beginning in 2005 as a pilot program in Chicago and Washington, D.C., Poetry Out Loud has since expanded nationwide to include millions of students across the country.
Over the last eight years, Georgia’s champions have been awarded over $45,000 from national and state competitions. Additionally, four of the state’s past winners have gone on to place in the top three at the national finals, including a first place finish in 2017.
“Poetry Out Loud inspires Georgia’s high school students to learn about contemporary poetry and build critical skills like public speaking and memorization that are essential for every industry and career,” said Tina Lilly, executive director of Georgia Council for the Arts.
“The program encourages students to broaden their perspectives and step out of their comfort zone, building self-confidence and nurturing curiosity.”