PLEASANT HILL, Calif.— Local community arts advocate and former Contra Costa County Poetry Out Loud Coordinator Robin Moore was recognized as the May 2026 Education Champion at the County Board of Education meeting.
Moore’s nearly 19 years of leadership with Poetry Out Loud have shaped the program’s growth and impact across the county. Through strong partnerships with teachers, principals, volunteers, and students, she helped expand participation to as many as 16 schools throughout Contra Costa County.
“We are grateful for Robin’s long-standing commitment to Poetry Out Loud,” Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey said. “Her advocacy and ability to engage volunteers have sustained the program over time. She has introduced students to the power of poetry and created experiences that leave a lasting impression.”
Her commitment also extended to students whose experiences are often less visible. Moore played an important role in bringing Poetry Out Loud to incarcerated youth at Byron Boys Ranch and Mt. McKinley School, creating access to the program for students facing significant challenges. She worked closely with participants to ensure they felt prepared and supported, whether by helping them select poems, coordinating transportation, or offering encouragement throughout the process.
In addition to expanding participation, Moore strengthened community involvement by inviting volunteer judges into school competitions and building a network of contributors that includes former educators, community partners, and past student participants.
Even after stepping down as county coordinator, she continues to support the program by organizing judging teams, mentoring new leaders, and collaborating with ArtsCCC to sustain Poetry Out Loud in Contra Costa County.
Moore’s contributions have been recognized at the state level with the California Arts Council’s Hero Award.
The Education Champion Award honors community partners who demonstrate exceptional commitment to supporting students, schools, and educational programs in Contra Costa County. Recipients of this recognition help create opportunities, strengthen connections, and contribute meaningful resources that benefit public education.
About Contra Costa County Office of Education
One of 58 counties in California, Contra Costa County has the 11th largest public-school student population in the state (approximately 169,261 students). Officially established in 1932, CCCOE has a long history of providing direct services to some of the county’s most vulnerable students, including young people who are incarcerated, homeless, or in foster care, as well as students who have severe physical or emotional challenges.
CCCOE also provides support services to schools and school districts in Contra Costa County; services that can be handled most effectively and economically on a regional basis rather than by each of the county’s 286 schools or 18 school districts. These services range from budget approval and fiscal support to technology infrastructure, communication support, and high-level professional development opportunities for educators. CCCOE maintains a website at www.cocoschools.org.
