Contest Guidelines

• The contest is open to individual students or teams in grades K-12.

• A single episode of a podcast series or a stand alone episode can be submitted

• Grade level bands for contest judging include:  K-5, 6-8, 9-12

• Podcasts must be between three minutes and eight minutes long. (3:00 - 8:00)

• Entries can include original music. This includes music that is originally composed/recorded and royalty free music. You must be aware of copyright and trademark laws. 

• Students will need the help of a teacher to submit their entry. The entry form is open to teachers only.

Contest Timeline

You can start submitting your podcast on Monday, October 12, 2023.

The contest will close on Friday, March 29, 2024.

Judging will take place and contest winners will be announced in May 2024.

Judging Procedures

Our panel of judges will use the following criteria to narrow down and choose the winners in our 3 age groups- 

• Elementary (K-5) 

• Middle (6-8)

• High (9-12) 

Below are the 3 main categories on which podcasts will be judged:

INFORMATION AND STRUCTURE, (40 PERCENT)

Does the podcast tell a compelling story or teach us something new and important? Is it structured in a way that makes sense and keeps listeners engaged? Can we easily follow the story you're telling or the information you're explaining? Have you spent time editing — cutting out unnecessary information or repetition and making sure the main ideas come through clearly?

PERSONALITY AND CREATIVITY, (40 PERCENT)

We want to listen to this podcast and hear your voices. Do we hear the unique voices of the individual, group,  class or community? Does it have personality, or does it make us want to fast-forward? (Tip: Try not to sound like you're reading from a script.) Does it make us laugh or cry or leave us deep in thought — feel something? That's what we're looking for.

PRODUCTION, (20 PERCENT)

We're not judging you on how fancy your equipment is and we don't expect you to be an expert on recording and editing sound, but we hope you'll try.

Some podcasts may use sound, or audio, in creative ways. Others may be more of an interview format. If you use sound apart from interviews and narration, does it add to the story you're telling? Is the sound clear, and are the volume levels even? Do the transitions sound smooth, without gaps between audio clips? Did you layer the audio and narration? These are some of the things we'll be looking for.

Participation

How to Participate:

1️⃣ Assemble your team or go solo – it's your podcast adventure! 

2️⃣ Select an appropriate topic and brainstorm ideas. You can also use a teacher’s assignment!

3️⃣ Write a script or outline to structure your podcast.

4️⃣ Record and edit your masterpiece to ensure a polished final product.

5️⃣ Teacher or other staff member submits podcast episodes through the designated platform by the March 29, 2024 deadline.

Elevate your voice to inspire, educate, and entertain!

Make your podcast a platform for sharing knowledge, inspiring others, and entertaining your audience. Engage listeners with your storytelling, thought-provoking discussions, and captivating interviews. This is your chance to leave a lasting impact through the power of your words!

Don't miss this chance to showcase your talent, creativity, and passion for podcasting. Mark your calendars, gather your ideas, and get ready to be a part of the 2023-24 VBCPS Podcast Contest. Who knows where this incredible opportunity might take you!

Recognition

All students who submit entries at their school will receive an appreciation certificate. 

Students whose entries make it to the citywide contest will also receive a certificate from the Department of Teaching and Learning.  

All citywide winners will receive the following:

• Certificate

• Recognition in the Superintendent's Report

• A large trophy to display at your school until the next year

• A new podcast set for your school