West Valley youth poetry competition back for 4th year

This is a wonderful opportunity for young poets to gain experience, share their work and meet writers from other schools and homeschool communities.”

Connie Whitlock | WHAM executive director

The WHAM Literary Arts Program is accepting applications for the fourth annual West Valley youth poetry competition, an inspiring celebration of young writers across the region.

Eligible students include freshmen, sophomores and juniors who reside in one of the following West Valley cities: Surprise, Sun City, El Mirage, Avondale, Buckeye, Gila Bend, Glendale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Peoria, Tolleson, Wickenburg or Youngtown.

A complete application must include contact information, a short essay response and a creative writing sample consisting of three to five poems.

“We’ve extended the application window this year to make sure every young writer who wants to participate has the opportunity,” said Maggie Gautier, WHAM’s literary arts manager and emcee of WHAM’s monthly open mic events. “WHAM is proud to provide a creative space outside the classroom where young voices can be heard, supported and connected with other poets from across the West Valley.”

Dysart Unified School District Curriculum Specialist Danielle Edgerton will judge the competition, along with two additional judges to be announced. Winners will be awarded first, second and third place, along with honorable mentions.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for young poets to gain experience, share their work and meet writers from other schools and homeschool communities,” WHAM Executive Director Connie Whitlock said. “The importance of poetry has echoed throughout the ages, and the talent we see in today’s youth is truly inspiring.”

Reigning champion Zoe Hyman will perform a new poem, co-authored with Gautier, at Surprise’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration and Service on Jan. 17 at Willow Canyon High School, 17901 W. Lundberg St.

The performance is an example of the meaningful opportunities available to participating youth poets.

In addition to the competition, interested students are invited to attend WHAM’s monthly open mic on the third Friday of each month. This gathering is open to all ages.

Information is available at wham-art.org.