Mission Statement

The Poet Laureate of Newton is a ceremonial position responsible for elevating poetry as an art form; promoting poetry, the written word, literacy, and literature among our city residents of all ages; engaging the community around poetry-related events; and bringing poetry into the daily lives of the residents of Newton.

How To Apply

1. Read the program guidelines (below).
2. Attend an in-person or virtual information session (recommended). 
3. Complete the online application which opens on September 19, 2026 and submit it by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on October 16, 2026.

Program Description

The Poet Laureate is appointed by the Mayor for a three-year term.

Poet Laureate duties include:

• Presenting works at civic events and attending official functions as a literary ambassador
• Developing public programming across the city, including workshops and showcasing events
• Enhancing current Newton Public Schools and Newton Free Library poetry programs through events, engagement, and outreach
• Serving as a resource for the city, the literary community, and Newton’s residents during National Poetry Month in April

The City of Newton will grant an honorarium of $2,000/year to acknowledge the unique significance of the Poet Laureate position.

Who Can Apply

Poets can apply themselves, and other city residents may nominate poets.  The Selection Committee will contact nominated poets and request that they submit an application.

To be considered for the role, applicants/nominees must be:

• At least 18 years old.
• A current resident of Newton who has lived in the city for at least two years prior to nomination and plans to live in the city throughout this appointment.
• Active as a poet with a publication history in books, magazines, and/or media.
• Committed to promoting poetry and making it accessible to the entire community.

Application Materials

• Online application
• A curriculum vitae or résumé
• Four examples of past published work
• A proposal, no longer than three pages, that details how the laureate will benefit, represent, and interact with the citizens of Newton, in accordance with the Poet Laureate mission statement.
• Confirmation of City of Newton residency

Selection Process

The Mayor will establish an Advisory Committee that will include representatives from the City and School departments, as well as community members with expertise/interest in poetry. The committee will review the applications/nominations and select three finalists who will be interviewed by the committee. Finalists may be asked to provide documentation of proof of residency and other additional background materials as part of the review.

The Advisory Committee will select TWO candidates to nominate for the Mayor’s consideration. The Mayor will make the final selection. 

Following selection, the Poet Laureate shall enter into an agreement with the City of Newton outlining reciprocal duties and responsibilities.

The Poet Laureate will work directly with the Department of Arts and Culture and the Newton Free Library to develop a schedule of public readings, events, and activities.

Timeline

Application opens: September 19, 2026

Information Sessions: In-person information sessions will be held at the Newton Free Library on Tuesday, September 15 (7 p.m.) and Thursday, September 17 (2 p.m). A virtual session will be held on Monday, September 28 at 7 p.m.

Application deadline: October 16, 2026 by 11:59 p.m. (ET)

Selection finalized and email notifications sent: Late December 2026

Term begins: January 2027

Please check back on September 19, 2026 for the application link.