Calling California’s creative youth!

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The California Arts Council, the state’s arts agency, has announced an open call for applications from young creative writers to serve as California’s first-ever Teen Poet Laureate. This new and prestigious position is open to poets ages 13–19 residing anywhere in California.

The role carries a two-year term and offers a unique opportunity to represent California’s younger generations while collaborating with the California Poet Laureate. The Teen Poet Laureate will focus on expanding access to the literary arts, particularly for students with limited exposure to poetry.

The position includes a $10,000 stipend, requires at least six public readings, and involves the creation and implementation of a significant poetry project. This is an extraordinary chance for young writers to become part of California’s literary history while inspiring others through the power of poetry.

The Stanislaus Arts Council is proud to stand in partnership and support of the Teen Poet Laureate Competition, uplifting opportunities that celebrate youth voices and foster a thriving creative future for our state.

The deadline to apply is November 30, 2025.

Visit capoetlaureate.org for more information and application submission details.

CA Teen Poet Laureate Flyer