#STLP26STATE - L2 Projects

L2: Semi-Final Stage of Project Cycle

Congratulations on advancing from the Regionals Level 1 Project judging to Level 2 at State. Below you'll find some helpful tips to prepare for your L2 ...and hopefully, L3!

START: UPDATED PROJECT TOOLKIT

Success at Level 2 starts with the Project Toolkit—just like it did for Level 1 at Regionals.

Use it to review rubrics, access key resources, the STLP logo, and more. Get your team prepared—start here!

The Level 2 Rubric: Your Secret Weapon

Judges will use the Level 2 rubric to guide their conversation with your team—it’s based on the same categories from your Level 1 pitch.

Plan your presentation around those rubric questions so you’re ready when asked. Judges may throw in extra questions, so stay confident and let your enthusiasm shine.

Technology Standards Matter

STLP projects are grounded in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Technology. At Level 2 and 3, those standards remain central to judging. Use the rubric and Standards Posters to shape and visually support your presentation.

Use Your Level 1 Feedback

Every team received judge feedback from Regionals. Revisit it to improve your project—your Level 1 Feedback Report is still accessible and a great prep tool!

All Level 2 Projects are located on the Third Floor in the Exhibit Hall (AKA Project Central). Check out the maps.

PREPARING TEAMS FOR L2

Table Assignments & Judging Times

Before #STLP26, each STLP Coordinator will receive:

Level 2 table assignments (schools grouped for convenience)
Approximate judging times

Back at School…

Build a presentation that engages both judges and general audience
Practice often—present to anyone willing to listen!
Incorporate technology wherever possible to enhance your presentation.

Level 2 Pro Tips

Practice with Noise: Rehearse your presentation in loud school areas (like the cafeteria or gym) to simulate the Expo Hall environment.
Practice Setup: Run through packing, unpacking, and setting up your space at school. Use a packing list, bring essentials (cords, tablecloth, etc.), and assign who carries what—it’s a long walk from bus drop-off!
Earn Easy Points: Display the STLP logo at your table for an easy 5 points. Download high-resolution logos from the STLP Logo page.

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT CENTRAL BANK CENTER

Off the Bus and Straight to Project Tables

With nearly 600 teams in one space, Project Central can feel overwhelming at first. But by reviewing event materials, following STLP volunteer guidance, and creatively using your space and technology, your Level 2 experience at State will be a success!

Bus Drop Off

Teams will enter via the Loading Dock on Lewis Oliver Way, walking up two ramps directly into the Exhibit Hall (Project Central) to set up at their assigned tables.

Drivers should plan to follow Lexington PD Traffic Control instructions to unload when they deem it appropriate and safe.

Buses can return to this same spot for pick-up after the Awards Ceremony. (Plan now with expection to attend Awards Show as a Level 3 project).

Find Your Table

Teams will enter directly from buses and go straight to their assigned tables—no check-in required.

Set up at your table for Level 2 judging.
Power is nearby (bring extension cords); WIFI is available throughout.
Tables are grouped by grade divisions (K-5, 6-8, 9-12).
Projects from the same school are placed near each other, unless in different divisions.

Use Your Space

Each team gets a bare wooden table with access to a nearby outlet (bring extension cords/power strips).

Use your space creatively to engage others—but stay within your area and keep walkways clear.

It’s not about how much you spend—it’s how effectively you present

Whenever possible, utilize technology in yuour project presentation.

LEVEL 2 JUDGING: WHAT TO KNOW

About Judging

Be set up before 10:00 AM.
Judging times are approximate—delays may happen if judges are supporting other teams. Please be patient and flexible.
Teams get up to 10 minutes with judges—don’t plan to use the full time.
If judges are over 30 minutes late, check in at your area’s Help Desk.
All registered teams will be judged, even if judging runs behind.

About Judges

STLP Judges are volunteer educators—active or retired—nominated by STLP Coaches for their understanding of the “why” behind STLP.
Great judges are patient, flexible, and focused on helping teams shine.
Judging isn’t about catching mistakes—it’s about celebrating student ideas and giving kind, helpful feedback.
Great judges make the STLP State experience wonderful for all students.

Digital Citizens

Use only original work in your presentation space. If you include copyrighted material, you must have written permission from the owner.
This Digital Citizenship guideline is the same for all STLP competitions.
For Creative Commons content, clearly display the license. Always cite data sources.
⚠️ A zero in Digital Citizenship disqualifies even the best project from advancing to Level 3.

WHEN JUDGES ARRIVE...

Only up to 4 selected presenters should stay at the table.
Others (team, teachers, parents) should explore State to reduce distractions.
No photos or videos during judging—let presenters focus on presentations.
Presenters should speak clearly and confidently,
...and be ready to answer questions, not just recite a script.

BEFORE L2 JUDGING

Be Ready for Visitors

The STLP State Championship is open to the public, including families and guests.
You’ll share your project with more than just judges—be ready to talk with lots of visitors!
Explore other nearby projects, but stay close—judges may arrive a few minutes early.

AFTER L2 JUDGING

You Did It—Take a Breath!

After judging, grab lunch, explore, and connect with other teams.
If your journey ends at Level 2, celebrate what you’ve learned—you’re already a step closer to next year’s success.
If you’re advancing to Level 3—get ready for next-level judging!

Which Projects Advance to Level 3?

At Level 2, judging is competitive—projects go head-to-head in randomly assigned Judging Groups by grade division.

Teams must score 91+ points on the Level 2 rubric to be considered.
Judges select one “Best in Level 2 Group” project per group from those scoring 91+.
Only these top-scoring group winners advance to Level 3.