RICHMOND — Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi this week announced the launch of a statewide poetry contest for Virginia students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
The Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Student Poetry Contest, launched in partnership with Virginia Humanities, invites students to submit original poetry or spoken-word pieces reflecting on the people, places, traditions, heritage and history that shape their lives and understanding of Virginia.
Entries will be accepted through Monday, Nov. 16.
“Poetry reminds us that language is one of our oldest forms of civic participation,” Hashmi said. “As an educator, I have always believed that learning flourishes when students are empowered to ask questions, reflect deeply, and share their own perspectives.”
Hashmi said the contest is intended to give students an opportunity to develop their voices and communicate their perspectives through poetry.
Matthew Gibson, executive director of Virginia Humanities, said the contest will give young Virginians an opportunity to explore their connections to the Commonwealth.
“We’re proud to partner with Lieutenant Governor Hashmi to create an opportunity for young people across Virginia to express themselves through poetry and discover the power of their own voices,” Gibson said.
The contest is open to all Virginia students in grades K-12.
Additional rules, submission guidelines and eligibility information are available on the lieutenant governor’s website.
