
Selah Johnson Wins California’s 2025 Poetry Out Loud State Finals
Selah Johnson, a talented student from Los Angeles County, has emerged victorious at the 2025 Poetry Out Loud State Finals in California. The competition, which took place on Saturday, saw Johnson captivate the audience and judges with her powerful recitations, securing the top spot among a field of gifted young poets.
Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program that encourages high school students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. This year's state finals in California brought together the best of the best, with participants showcasing their skills in delivering poems with passion and precision.
Johnson's winning performance included pieces by renowned poets, demonstrating her versatility and deep understanding of the art form. Her victory not only highlights her personal achievement but also underscores the importance of arts education in nurturing young talent.
As the state champion, Johnson will now advance to the national finals, where she will compete against winners from other states for the title of Poetry Out Loud National Champion. This opportunity will allow her to further showcase her talent on a larger stage and inspire more students to engage with poetry.
The success of Selah Johnson at the state level is a testament to the vibrant arts scene in Los Angeles County and the dedication of educators and students alike to the arts. Her journey in the competition will be closely watched as she represents California in the upcoming national finals.