Wakefield High School is offering a special opportunity for writing-inclined students looking to jumpstart their writing careers. The spoken word contest and its multiple preceding workshops aim to help interested students refine their poetry and performance skills while giving them the chance to get their art out into the world.

This is the first year Wakefield is participating in this contest, and media coordinator Joyce Deaton could not be more excited to spread the word. Since many students are unfamiliar with this opportunity, she tells interested students everything they need to know.

“The contest is an opportunity to give students a chance to perform their original poetry in a spoken word kind of format, and also have an opportunity to win a big cash prize,” Deaton said. “The first prize is $1,000, second prize is $500 and third prize is $300. You can even get awarded a $100 Amazon gift card for the honorable mentions.” 

Apart from the generous cash prizes, participants stand to learn so much about the art of spoken word, while also gaining exposure and valuable connections. English teacher Heather McDonald expands on the benefits awaiting any student who submits themselves.

“It is helping to promote literacy school-wide,” McDonald said. “It increases engagement and gives students a different avenue outside of the classroom to show what they’re good at.”

This contest has also caught the eye of sophomore Daniella Howard. She recommends that any interested student take advantage of the opportunity at hand.

“It’s an opportunity to be creative and get your thoughts out,” Howard said.

Deaton recognizes that poetry, especially spoken word, is usually an overlooked art form. She is hopeful that this contest can inspire young artists to better appreciate the craft and find another way to express themselves.

“I think a lot of writers and poets fly below the radar and people don’t always recognize the genius that’s in their head,” Deaton said. “When kids have an opportunity to share what’s going on inside their worlds through poetry, it can be an extremely powerful experience for people to recognize [their] talent. It builds your confidence to find your voice.”

For any interested Wakefield students, the process is simple. Deaton will be hosting more informational PACK Times on Oct. 23 and Oct. 28 to give inspiration and help workshop pieces with students. To submit your work to the contest, record a video, three minutes or less, of your performance. More information can be found here. 

This contest is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for any student interested in poetry. McDonald encourages any student to try their hand at spoken word poetry and submit their work as the benefits could be immeasurable.

“Be confident and be proud of yourself and what you can do,” McDonald said. “Understand that people realize that it takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there.”