Rules of Participation:

A poem in its entirety must be an original work by the person entering the contest; plagiarized poems will be disqualified.
Poems may be written in any standard format.
Text should be typed. Font size 12
Poems should be no longer than 2 pages, double-spaced.
Submit 2 copies of your poem, 1 with no name on it.
Only one entry per individual person will be accepted; no co-authors of a poem will be accepted.
Poem will be accepted through via website and in person.
The application form needs to be filled out.
The parents or legal guardian will fill out the Release Form for students under 18.

Language:

English or Spanish.
Mix English and Spanish

Participants:

Students from LISD, UISD, private schools, and homeschooling.
Adults 18 and over.

Method:

Divide all contestants by age and grade level.
The deadline for submitting poems is Friday, February 09, 2024, by 6:00 p.m. at the Laredo Public Library (Main branch).
3-7 judges in each group will review all poems received & select the top 3 winners and 1-3 honorable mention recipients.
The top 3 winners in each group will read their poems and receive prizes and gift bags.
Honorable Mentions will receive gift bags and the option to read their poems.
All participants will receive certificates of participation.

Results:

Publish the winners’ poems.
Continue the Poetry Festival every year as a local educational activity.

Sponsors:

Diocese of Laredo Catholic Schools Friends of the Library Laredo College Laredo Independent School District Laredo Public Library Texas A & M International University United Independent School District Harmony Public School Laredo

DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING POEMS IS February 09, 2024

Release form: Release Form

Application form: Application form

You can submit your application and poem virtually here: 21st Annual Laredo Poetry Festival Registration | Laredo Public Library (laredolibrary.org)