Poetry Out Loud is a national poetry recitation competition for high school students. All Nebraska high schools are invited to participate each year in this exciting educational program.
Nebraska’s 2022 Poetry Out Loud competition was conducted virtually, due to COVID-19. The state finals were held on March 11, 2022, with the following results:
State Champion:
Alexandra Zaleski, Skutt Catholic High School
1st Runner-up:
Madeleine Smith, Marian High School
2nd Runner-up:
Tessa Hurlburt, Gordon-Rushville High School
Honorable mentions:
Jayna Moses, Burwell High School
Elle Sudbeck, Thayer Central Community Schools
Uotong Haidle. Callaway Public Schools
Nebraska’s state champ will compete with students from all fifty states at National Finals, which will also be held virtually this year.

The 2022 Poetry Out Loud trophies are made with handblown glass created by Nebraska artists.