A Sussex Academy sophomore has earned the title of Delaware’s 2026 Poetry Out Loud state champion and will head to the nation’s capital to compete against students from across the country.
Natalia Gatti, a tenth-grader at Sussex Academy, secured the state championship and will represent Delaware at the Poetry Out Loud National Finals scheduled for April 27-29 in Washington, D.C.
The competition, which challenges students to recite classic and contemporary poems from memory, culminated with Gatti’s victory at the state level. Her achievement advances her to the prestigious national stage where she’ll compete alongside champions from all 50 states and U.S. territories.
Reflecting on her connection to poetry, Gatti shared her perspective on the art form’s significance. “I believe that poetry is freedom. It is freedom of self, of expression, of love — and I believe that my poetry is my dignity,” she stated.
The Poetry Out Loud program, a national initiative, encourages high school students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. The competition begins at the classroom level and advances through school, regional, and state competitions before reaching the national finals.
Gatti’s success represents Sussex Academy and the First State as she prepares to showcase Delaware’s talent on the national stage this spring.
