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Senior Maria Zaki and Poetry Out Loud high school coordinator Erin Auger at the regional semifinal in Hopkinton. (Photo courtesy Franklin Public Schools)
Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Franklin High School principal Joshua Hanna have shared that Franklin High School student Maria Zaki advanced to the Poetry Out Loud state final in Boston on Sunday, March 10.
Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program that encourages the study of poetry by hosting a recitation competition for high school students. Students must memorize and recite poems from the Poetry Out Loud database accurately and compellingly to advance in the competition. While promoting poetry appreciation, Poetry Out Loud also instills confidence in public speaking.
Maria Zaki, a senior, was one of three finalists from twelve schools at the regional semifinals at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts on Saturday, March 2. She recited "Rondeau" by Leigh Hunt and "The New Colossus" by Emma Lazarus from memory.
At the state finals, which were held at the Old South Meeting House in Boston, Maria competed against 17 other students. In addition to her two poems recited at the semifinals, she also recited "Hysteria" by Dionisio D. Martinez.
The winner of the state final advanced to the national competition.
"We are so proud to have Maria represent Franklin High School in this nationally-recognized competition," Superintendent Lucas Giguere said. "She excelled in the finals!"
