Senior places second in state poetry competition

Senior Jakob Tucker placed second in the Ohio Poetry Out Loud competition.

Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program that sponsors a dynamic recitation competition for high schools across the country. This program helps students master public speaking skills and build self-confidence while learning more about classic and contemporary poetry.

English Department Chair Angie Noble said, “Jakob took this competition very seriously. He was driven to do the work required to compete at the state level and it paid off. Jakob is a deep thinker and a strong observer and his recitations really allowed those talents to shine.”

Jakob participated in the school-wide contest, advanced to regional semi-finals, then competed in the state finals. The state championship, which was live-streamed before a virtual audience, was emceed by former Senator Eric Kearney and included poetry from Ohio Poet Laureate Kari Gunter-Seymour.

Jakob recited “Dawn of Man” by Max Ritvo, “In the Desert” by Stephen Crane, and “Very Large Moth” by Craig Arnold. Jakob said he chose these poems because of “their loose form and dark undertones that offered multiple interpretations.”

Poetry Out Loud coach and English teacher Laura Rupp said, “Jakob has a unique style and an uncanny eye for choosing poems that perfectly suit that style. I am certain that is why he stood out to the judges at State. We are so proud of him.”