National Contest

The National Contest takes places in mid-June at the University of Maryland, College Park. Affiliate programs take on different levels of responsibility for preparing and guiding their delegations through the National Contest experience. 

At minimum, Affiliate coordinators will:

• Identify national qualifiers and work with the National Office to ensure students and teachers are registered for the contest

• Prepare their delegations for nationals by providing information about the contest

• Attend the national competition, cheer on students from their program, and assist the National Office by judging or filling volunteer shifts

Most Affiliate coordinators will use the National Contest as an opportunity to gain recognition for their students and programs, build connections with teachers and students, and create a memorable experience for students that goes beyond the results of the competition. Some of these activities will include:

• Providing feedback to students as they revise their entries before the National Contest

• Hosting pizza parties or ice cream socials to help students from their delegation meet each other

• Providing buttons for students to trade and t-shirts to build team spirit

Information about the National Contest has been divided into three phases to help you understand the event, your responsibilities, how to prepare, and additional elements you may want to consider.