Catholic Central’s annual Poetry Out Loud competition proved to be a resounding success, showcasing the talent and dedication of Shamrock students across all grade levels.

Each year, every student participates in the nationwide program, which encourages the study and performance of classic and contemporary poetry. Following this year’s competition, a panel of English teachers selected four outstanding schoolwide winners:

• First Place ($150 Prize): James Wigton ’26
• Second Place ($75 Prize): Enzo Finazzo ’27
• Third Place ($50 Prize): Eddie Dosch ’29
• Honorable Mention ($25 Prize): Brady Shih ’27

Representing Catholic Central at the next level, James Wigton advanced to the Michigan Poetry Out Loud State Finals, held March 14 at Central Michigan University. Competing against 15 other top students from across the state, Wigton delivered an impressive performance to earn Second Runner-Up honors and a $500 prize.

At the state finals, Wigton recited three poems from the official Poetry Out Loud anthology, including Song of Myself, 3 by Walt Whitman, Two by Edna St. Vincent Millay, and Medusa by Carol Ann Duffy.

“I am incredibly proud of James, who worked so diligently on his poem recitations and then performed his absolute best at the highest level. He is an amazing young man, a gentleman, and a scholar,” stated English Teacher Kevin Griffin ’96.

The 2026 state competition featured 16 high school finalists and was ultimately won by Eliza Aldridge of Leland Public School. According to Michigan Humanities, an estimated 3,060 students and 77 teachers participated in this year’s program statewide.

Now in its 21st year, the national program, presented in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, aims to deepen students’ appreciation of poetry through memorization and performance. This year’s theme emphasized works that reflect the richness of American history and culture.

Congratulations to all of this year’s participants, especially to our Shamrock winners and James Wigton on his success at the state level.