Go Victor!

Moving to the national finals

First poem recitation

State Poetry Out Loud champions from across the country converged at the Lisner Auditorium at George Washington University in Washington, DC yesterday. During three different blocks of time students representing each state recited poetry as part of the semifinals.

Joao Victor represented Maine and was scheduled during the first time slot, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. He recited two poems along with 17 other students. Students at Lewiston High School watched from their classrooms along with students, teachers, and community members from across the state. Everyone was excited when Victor’s name was called as one of 8 students to move to the next round, reciting a third poem.

At the end of round three 8 students held their breath as three finalists were named. Maine, Vermont, and Massachusetts will move on to the national finals tonight, Wednesday along with 6 other students, representing the other two regions of the country. Yes, that means that out of thousands of students Joao Victor of Maine will be one of 9 students.

Again each will recite two poems, finalists will be selected to recite their third poem and a student will be named the National Poetry Out Loud Champion. The webcast live will take place at Lisner Auditorium, tonight at 7:00 p.m at THIS LINK.

Brian Evans-Jones, poet from South Berwick, has been coaching Victor since he was named Maine’s champion. The Maine Arts Commission is grateful for Brian’s commitment to the Poetry Out Loud program. Jim Siragusa, Victor’s English teacher has been working with him since the fall preparing him for the program. Jim is retiring this year after 38 years. Congratulations Jim and best of luck to Victor. You’ve made Maine proud already!

Receiving his plaque at the end of the second round of recitations.

Victor learning he was one of three to move on to the national finals.

On Victor’s left is Rose E. Hansen, Norwell High School, Massachusetts and his right is Escaja-Heiss, South Burlington High School, Vermont

Victor and his English teacher Mr. Siragusa at the State House last month after reciting for the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee