MMI Preparatory School sophomore Christina Chrin placed third at the regional Poetry Out Loud competition held at Luzerne County Community College on Dec. 10. Christina recited three poems in the regional competition: “Beautiful Wreckage” by W.D. Ehrhart; “Breakfast” by Mary Lamb; and “Confessions” by Robert Browning. She is the daughter of Jeffrey Chrin and Dr. Tammy Chrin of Barnesville.

“Poetry Out Loud provides students with a remarkable opportunity to explore the power of language and performance,” said Theresa Long, MMI head of school. “We are so proud of Christina’s success and how beautifully she represented MMI at the regional competition.”

Christina won the school-level competition on Oct. 25 to advance to the regional level.

At regionals, she competed against students throughout Luzerne, Lackawanna, Northwestern Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and eastern Wyoming counties. The advisers for the Poetry Out Loud competition at MMI are Jeremy Davidheiser and Jennifer Novotney.

“Christina’s dedication and poise in delivering such complex and emotionally resonant poems was excellent,” Davidheiser said. “Tina should be exceptionally proud of her performance, especially as a first-time performer and a sophomore! Her achievement at the regional level is a testament to her hard work and passion for literature.”

The annual event is designed to improve public speaking skills, build confidence, and teach students about literary history.