Passion, drive,
and leadership

By “Literary Excellence,” we mean any written work that employs the tools of the poetic craft. Think music! Think image! Think metaphor and simile, too! This also includes traditional forms (sonnet, villanelle, ghazal, and so on), if that’s how the Youth Poet Laureate applicant chooses to express themselves. We anticipate their work will include passion, strong voice, and intentional use of themes. We want their stories concerning the heart, spirit, and mind. We want their ideas about politics, identity, family, history, and love in all its forms. We’re eager for their musings and reflections on any aspect of the human experience, often occurring at the intersection of any of the previously mentioned topics. Together, we hope their work will help us explore and deepen our common humanity.

By “Civic Engagement,” we mean any consistent commitment to strengthening and promoting the quality of life in the Youth Poet Laureate applicant’s community or school. They might frequently participate in local theater productions, provide financial support to their family through an after-school job, or collect litter in their neighborhood. By “Social Justice,” we mean examples in the Youth Poet Laureate applicant’s life that display a commitment to equity, inclusivity, activism, and the fundamental right of youth to be outspoken. This might look like political activism, classroom and club participation, volunteerism, as well as various educational and artistic initiatives, such as a public, performance arts showcase to destigmatize mental illness. The possibilities are nearly limitless!