To support candidates moving from the state level to the Region V level, candidates will submit an unedited video (of up to 8 minutes), responding to two questions related to her/his award category.  The following links provide support in preparing and submitting your candidate interview video:

General Submission Information:

• Length of Video: up to 8 minutes maximum 

• Unedited Video – Do not add titles, backgrounds, music, props, or transitions 

• The judges have read your application and recommendation letters. Please do not add extra information beyond your response to the two interview questions asked and your professional organization involvement

• Save the video with your First Name and Last Name (i.e., Marian Smith)

• Upload your saved video to YouTube (directions follow) and share the link through the Video Interview Submission Form no later than March 1.

• SUBMIT your video here: https://forms.gle/Jg4tk91RRCGXF8oj6

For your Video: 

• Introduce yourself and state “I am a candidate for… (name the category…).” Example: “Hello, my name is Marian Smith, and I am a candidate for Teacher of the Year.”

• Briefly state any involvement you have in your professional organizations and ACTE at the local, state, region, and national level. 

• Read the first question for your category and provide your response. Example (based on teacher of the year category): “Question 1: Describe what you have done in your program that has made the greatest impact on student learning.” Then, respond to that question. 

• Read the second question and respond to that question 

• Close your interview with a simple, “Thank you”

Tips: 

• Review the two interview questions and prepare your responses. Interview questions can be found here. 

• Wear the outfit you would wear to the actual interview during videotaping. 

• Choose a background that is uncluttered and not distracting. 

• Film in a well-lit room with more light in front of you rather than behind you (don’t film with a window at your back). 

• Speak clearly and loud enough to be heard. Look into the camera as if you were speaking to the judges. 

• Notes are ok to refer to while videotaping, but avoid reading from them. 

• Review your video to make sure the awards judges are able to see and hear you clearly. 

Creating a Video Submission: 

• Creating a Video Submission

YouTube Upload of Video: 

• YouTube Guidelines

Award applications for Region V Conference eligibility are due by March 1, 2026

ACTE Region V Awards Contact Info:

Tracy Kern 

Phone:  605-743-2567 (school)

Email:  actevawards@gmail.com or tracy.kern@k12.sd.us