Jan. 10, 2008 – Shaker High School is set to host the annual Poetry Out Loud National Recitation Contest on Thursday, Jan. 10 beginning at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Members of the school community are encouraged to attend the contest to support the nine participating students, as well as to enjoy a live jazz performance.

Students will be judged by Superintendent of Schools Mrs. Randy Ehrenberg, High School Principal Mr. Rich Murphy, Siena College Professor Dr. Nate Leslie and retired Shaker High School English teacher Mrs. Connie Rubick-Stoberski.

The winner of the school-wide competition will advance to the regional level, and the state winner will advance on to the nationals where $50,000 in scholarships and school prizes will be awarded.

The competition, presented in partnership with New York State Art Alliance, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Poetry Foundation, is part of a national program that encourages high school students to learn about great poetry through memorization, performance and competition.