COMPAS, a longstanding arts organization in Minnesota, invites youth in grades 7 through 12 to apply for its Fall 2026 Spoken Word Showcase. This program is designed to nurture emerging voices in spoken word, providing selected artists with a structured opportunity to develop their craft under the guidance of COMPAS Spoken Word artist Frank Sentwali. The showcase will culminate in a professional performance at the Highland Park Recreation Center Auditorium (1978 Ford Parkway, Saint Paul, MN 55116), a community venue that has hosted various cultural events. The curatorial vision emphasizes both artistic growth and public presentation. Ten to twelve young artists will be selected to participate, ensuring a focused and supportive environment. Participation includes coaching sessions and a stipend for performers, with all activities offered free of charge. This initiative reflects COMPAS's commitment to empowering youth through creative expression and community engagement. Applicants are asked to submit up to two spoken word pieces with working titles, along with a short artist statement/bio that includes their name, school, and grade. For those new to COMPAS, a video of a spoken word piece is recommended to provide a sense of performance ability. The deadline for submissions is October 31, 2026, at 11:59 pm, with notifications sent by November 11.