Student Screen Fest 2025

Submission Guidelines

Length: PSAs must be exactly 30 or 60 seconds, including any credits or disclaimers.

Format: Videos should be submitted in a commonly accessible format (e.g., MP4 or MOV) with a minimum resolution of 720p.

Original Content: All video, audio, and visual elements must be original or properly licensed for use. Proper credits and disclaimers must be included if applicable. 

Deadline: All entries must be submitted by February 14, 2025.

Prompt: 

• Create a :30 or :60 public service announcement demonstrating the effect kindness can have in public schools.

• Target audience is 7th - 12th grade students.
  
  

Judging Criteria

Entries will be judged based on the following categories and point distribution: 

Unique Approach to the Topic (20 points)

• Points awarded for a creative and fresh approach to the PSA topic 

• Judges will evaluate the use of storytelling and visual elements that make the PSA stand out. 

Clarity and Strength of Message (30 points)

• Effectiveness in communicating the message.

• Clear connection of the content to the target audience.

• Overall impact and memorability of the PSA.

Production Quality (40 points)

• Visual Quality: Sharpness, appropriate lighting, and visual clarity, including effective use of camera angles, composition, and movement.

• Sound Quality: Clear and balanced audio, minimal background noise, appropriate sound effects, and music that enhance the message.

• Editing: Smooth transitions, appropriate pacing, and effective cuts. Special effects or graphics should enhance rather than distract from the message. 

• Technical Execution: High-quality production without technical errors like poor resolution, jump cuts, or inconsistent audio levels.

Adherence to Time Limit (10 points)

• PSAs must be exactly 30 or 60 seconds long, inclusive of credits and disclaimers.

• Entries outside this time range will lose points: 1 point for every second over or under.

Disqualification

Any use of copyrighted material without permission, inappropriate language or imagery, or non-original content will result in disqualification.

Prizes

Prizes will be awarded to the top team per level and a “best overall.”

Rights

By entering, participants grant CMCSS permission to use the PSA for educational or promotional purposes. 

Good luck, and we look forward to seeing your creativity and talent!

Viewing Event

Selected teams will be invited to attend a viewing event at The Roxy Regional Theatre on March 6,