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National Student Poets Program
Feb 10, 2025

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The National Student Poets Program, presented by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, is a prestigious initiative aimed at recognizing and promoting the talents of young poets in grades 10 to 11 across the United States. Each year, five students are selected for a year of service, with each student representing a different geographic region of the country. The program emphasizes the importance of youth voices in effecting meaningful change and offers a platform for these voices to be heard. The National Student Poets Program is not just an honor but also a call to service. Throughout their year of service, the selected poets act as ambassadors for poetry within their respective communities. They are involved in individual service projects, participate in April Poetry Month readings and workshops, and get the chance to engage in various other opportunities such as national poetry conferences, galas, and festivals. A significant aspect of their service is the creation of a community service project, where they expand the reach of the Program by engaging audiences in their region around issues and themes that hold special significance for them. To be eligible for the National Student Poets Program, students must first enter their poetry into the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Those in grades 10 to 11 who receive a Gold Key in the poetry category may be selected to apply for the National Student Poets Program. The nominees are then asked to complete an additional application. The outcomes of this program are multifaceted. Not only do the students get to develop their poetic voices and gain significant exposure, but they are also empowered to effect change and contribute to their communities through their poetry. As poets, they get to explore and shed light on the issues and themes that matter to them, and in doing so, inspire others and make a difference.

written by
Rishab Jain