California is naming a
Teen Poet Laureate
for the very first time.
Is that you?
What is the California Teen Poet Laureate?
The California Teen Poet Laureate (TPL for short) is a new position established under California law. This young artist will be an advocate for poetry in the Golden State and will represent the state and the California Arts Council (CAC) at events throughout their two-year term.
To be considered, you must be a teenaged poet (ages 13-19, inclusive) living in California and submit an application to the California Arts Council by November 30, 2025. The applications will be reviewed by a panel of three literary experts who will submit finalists to the Governor. The Governor will then appoint California’s First Teen Poet Laureate!
What does the California TPL do?
Upon assuming the office, the Teen Poet Laureate will begin a two-year term advocating for poetry across California. The Teen Poet Laureate (and their parent/guardian, if the individual is a minor) will work with the California Arts Council (CAC) on a series of events and projects related to the position. The governing legislation for this position requires the TPL to:
Provide a minimum of six public readings during their term
Undertake a specific poetry project that will last through the term
Other activities as agreed upon by the TPL, their parent/guardian, and the CAC
There are opportunities for the TPL to be involved in numerous CAC activities, like events with the California Poet Laureate, the California Poetry Out Loud competition, and other CAC outreach activities. The TPL will also have the opportunity to work with the Governor’s Office, the state legislature, and other offices of California state and local government.
The TPL will serve a two-year term that is not eligible for renewal.
How do I apply?
Am I eligible?
Applicants must be between the ages of 13-19 (inclusive) on the application submission deadline (November 30, 2025).
Applicants must reside in California when applying and must reside in California during their term as TPL.
Questions?
