When can I expect to hear if my letter was chosen?
You can expect to hear back from us by March or April, 2023.
How many letters do you select to be published?
We select five letters for each of our six participating poets, for a total of thirty selected letters. The thirty letters will be published in a shareable, PDF booklet by the end of April.
How do you choose letters?
Our team of readers selects letters that we think best facilitate conversation between students and poets. There is no specific formula and we aren’t necessarily looking for the “best written” letters, rather, we aim to showcase letters that engage with the poems in any meaningful way. We are committed to showcasing a wide range of voices, selecting letters from all age groups and from as many different backgrounds as possible.
Am I guaranteed a response?
Unfortunately, given the number of letters we receive, it isn’t possible for poets to respond to every letter. However, all students can expect a general response from the poet to whom they wrote, as well as a certificate from the Academy.
Will my letter definitely be read?
Yes. We have a team of dedicated readers and take pride in reading every single letter sent to us in its entirety.
What personal information will be published, should my letter be selected for a response?
The Academy requires permission from a parent or guardian in order to consider publication of a minor's letter. An adult's email address is required in the submission form. If we are unable to obtain a parent, teacher, or legal guardian’s permission, we will only publish the student's first name and grade level, and we will edit any location information out of the letters. If we are able to obtain permission, we will publish the student’s first name, grade level, and state.
I am a senior in high school. How will I hear back after my graduation?
If your school email address will expire after graduation, please provide us with an alternative email address where we can contact you if needed.