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WHERE DO I BEGIN?

ENTERING A CREATIVE ARTS, TALENT, OR ROYALTY CONTEST IS AS EASY AS . . .

CHOOSE A CONTEST

We offer 15 different contests for you to enter!

REGISTER ONLINE

Go to spjst.org/showcase to register. All registration is due on June 15, 2026.

DROP OFF YOUR ENTRIES

All creative arts entries, except photography and digital entries, must be dropped off between 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026.

ATTEND THE AWARDS PRESENTATION

The awards presentation will be held on the afternoon of Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Frank W. Mayborn Center in Temple, Texas. Participants must be present to receive any awards.

2026 SPJST STATE YOUTH SHOWCASE CONTEST CALENDAR

June 15

11:59 p.m.

June 16

Registration Deadline for All Contests

Talent and Royalty Entries Will Receive an Email with File Upload Instructions

June 27

Talent and Royalty Deadline to Upload Audio/Video Files and Script/Speech

July 24

June 25

Creative Arts Entry Drop Off - 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Talent Sound Check/Royalty Stage Walk-Through Special Category Contest - 2 p.m.

Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center, Temple, TX

A Fun Afternoon of Games and More! - 3 to 6 p.m.

Spare Time Texas, Temple, TX

Talent Sound Check - 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.

Talent and Royalty Contests

Country Store Open for Christmas

Ornament and Dessert Entries

Creative Arts, Talent, and Royalty Awards

Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center, Temple, TX

Find all rules, entry guidelines, and online registration for contests at: SPJST.ORG/SHOWCASE

2026 SPJST STATE YOUTH SHOWCASE WHAT IS IT?

What is the youth Showcase?

The SPJST State Youth Showcase is an opportunity for youth members to present their creativity, skills, and talents in a healthy competition that inspires participants to do their best! Competition is wonderful when winning is not the sole objective, and when young people get to grow from the experience. There is no cost to enter.

When is it? Where is it?

Friday, July 24Saturday, July 25 2026

Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center 3033 N Third St. • Temple, TX

Who Can enter?

» The Showcase is open to all SPJST youth members who have a current SPJST life insurance or annuity certificate that is issued prior to June 1, 2026.

» SPJST youth in kindergarten to 12th grade as of the 2025-2026 school year are eligible to participate. (Youth entering kindergarten to 12th grade in the fall 2026 are eligible. Youth who will have graduated high school as of July 1, 2026, are not eligible.)

» All contestants must be unmarried and not pregnant or a parent.

2026 SPJST STATE YOUTH SHOWCASE HOW DO I ENTER?

What Contests Can I enter?

SPJST offers 15 contests for youth in Creative Arts, Talent, and Royalty. Contestants may enter one entry per Creative Arts category, one entry in Individual Talent, one entry in Group Talent (2 or more youth), and one entry in Royalty. For youth groups, a scrapbook contest is offered. Each youth group may enter one scrapbook (either traditional or video).

Creative Arts

Christmas Ornament

Constructed Item - String & Rope

Dessert - Sweet Rolls

Handicraft

Hobby Kit (NON-Building Blocks)

Holiday Corner

Building Blocks Construction

Photography - United We Shine (Thematic)

Pictorial Art

Science and Education

Special Category

Video Short

Talent

Individual Talent (solo) Group Talent (2 or more youth)

Royalty Scholarship

Mr. and Miss SPJST

Junior Mr. and Junior Miss SPJST

Little Mr. and Little Miss SPJST

Tiny Mr. and Tiny Miss SPJST

Scrapbook for Youth Groups

Scrapbook

How Do I enter?

No entries will be accepted through any other means (email, text, etc.)

Registration closes on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. All entries must be registered online at spjst.org/showcase.

If an error is discovered with a registered entry, it can be corrected prior to the close of registration on Wednesday, July 1, at 11:59 p.m. If a youth registers multiple entries for the same contest, the entry with the latest submission date/time will be accepted for the competition.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE ENTERING A CONTEST

General Showcase Rules

» Contestant Presence - All contestants must be present on the afternoon of Saturday, July 25 at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple, Texas, during the recognition ceremony to receive any awards.

» Professional Status - Youth may compete in all Showcase contests in which they are not professional. A youth is considered professional if pay or other valuable consideration was accepted for services rendered. Favors or courtesies are excluded (plaques, trophies, certiﬁcates, etc.).

» False Statement - If it is ascertained that a contestant has made a false statement in regards to any entry, the contestant shall be excluded from competition and forfeit all awards. Contestants must also adhere to the grade divisions. If an entry is to be found in violation of that policy, it will be disqualiﬁed.

» Entry Protection - Every effort is taken to protect and care for all entries. However,

SPJST and its oﬃcers, directors, employees, and volunteers will not be responsible for any loss or damage to entries.

» Rules and Regulations - Contestants agree to be bound by the oﬃcial Showcase rules and decisions of the judges. Anything that is a violation of the rules will result in disqualiﬁcation from that particular contest. SPJST reserves the right to interpret or amend guidelines as necessary. SPJST also reserves the right to refuse and/or not display any item.

» Any protest concerning rule violations must be made prior to the announcement of the winners and must be directed to the Director of Member Engagement. Once the winners are announced, the decisions of the judges are ﬁnal.

» Any entry that was previously exhibited at an SPJST Youth Achievement Day or SPJST Youth Showcase may not be re-entered.

Tie Breaker

» Ties will be broken for First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth place recognition in all categories.

If scores are tied after the judging, the tabulation overseer will determine the winner by reviewing the contestant’s scores. The contestant with the greatest number of ﬁrst place scores from the judges will be the ﬁrst place winner.

Tabulation Example

Judge 1 Judge 2 Judge 3 Total

Contestant 1 95 85 97 277

Contestant 2 93 88 96 277

Contestant 1 is the winner since they have the two highest place scores

To avoid being disqualified

General Rules - Creative Arts

CREATIVE ARTS CONTEST

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT

Contest Rules

• Ornament may be handmade or purchased in a pre-assembled kit.

• Salt dough is acceptable.

• After judging, entries will be moved to the Country Store. For more details, refer to page 16.

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on originality, execution, general appearance, and degree of diﬃculty:

Originality (40 points) - Unique approach to subject matter. Is there a WOW factor?

Execution (40 points) - Craftsmanship, excellence in skill and technique.

General Appearance (10 points) - Visually appealing, clean.

Degree of Diﬃculty (10 points) - Based on the age division. Was it diﬃcult and challenging?

CONSTRUCTED ITEM - STRING & ROPE

Contest Rules

Entry must be constructed primarily from string, yarn, twine, cord, or rope as the main material. Projects can be decorative, practical, or wearable. All entries must be made primarily from string or rope and may include other materials (beads, wood, fabric, etc.) as accents.

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on originality, execution, general appearance, and degree of diﬃculty:

Originality (40 points) - Unique approach to subject matter. Is there a WOW factor?

Execution (40 points) - Craftsmanship, excellence in skill and technique.

General Appearance (10 points) - Visually appealing, clean.

Degree of Diﬃculty (10 points) - Based on the age division. Was it diﬃcult and challenging?

CREATIVE ARTS CONTEST

DESSERT - SWEET ROLLS

Contest Rules

Deﬁnition: Sweet rolls are a category of baked goods that include various types of sweet, yeast-leavened breads often enjoyed as breakfast or dessert items. They are typically enriched with ingredients like butter, eggs, and sugar, and may include spices, nuts, or candied fruits. Many sweet rolls are also topped with glazes or icings.

Recipe Submission: Entrants must submit a complete recipe along with their entry registration. The recipe should list all ingredients, specify amounts, and provide detailed preparation and baking instructions.

Baking Container: Sweet rolls must be baked in and submitted in a non-decorative disposable 9x13-inch pan or 9-inch round pan with a clear lid.

Roll Characteristics: Sweet rolls must be fully baked with a golden-brown exterior and no wet or doughy centers.

Safety Notice: To prevent food poisoning, all perishable ingredients (including cream cheese, butter, and dairy-based ﬁllings) must be baked into the rolls. Unbaked or raw dough entries will not be accepted.

Country Store: After judging, entries will be moved to the Country Store. For more details, refer to page 16.

Prohibited Entries

Refrigerated items requiring cold storage (e.g., cream cheese ▪ frosting that hasn't been baked)

Store-bought pre-made rolls (dough must be homemade or made

from scratch using store-bought ingredients like yeast and ﬂour)

Savory rolls (e.g., garlic knots, dinner rolls)

Raw or unbaked dough

Entries with alcohol (including rum, brandy, wines, liqueurs, and

extracts by those names)

Entries requiring refrigeration after baking

Judging Criteria

Execution (35 points) - Considerations include the cook’s intention, adherence to the category, cooking techniques, ingredient balance, ease of eating, and cook’s grade division.

Appearance (15 points) - Judges will evaluate the pie's presentation in the 9-inch pan, including its resemblance to the recipe description and overall appeal.

Taste (50 points) - The most crucial criterion, focusing on whether the pie's ﬂavors are well-balanced, the texture is appealing, and the primary ingredients are discernible and delicious.

CREATIVE ARTS CONTEST HANDICRAFT

Contest Rules

• Any constructed or assembled item that does not qualify for another category.

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on originality, execution, general appearance, and degree of diﬃculty:

Originality (40 points) - Unique approach to subject matter. Is there a WOW factor?

Execution (40 points) - Craftsmanship, excellence in skill and technique.

General Appearance (10 points) - Visually appealing, clean.

Degree of Diﬃculty (10 points) - Based on the age division. Was it diﬃcult and challenging?

HOBBY KIT (NON-BUILDING BLOCKS)

Contest Rules

• Purchased in a kit and completed by the youth.

• If materials included in the kit are different from what is speciﬁed in the kit instructions, please note this on the registration form.

• Printed instructions must be submitted with entry on Showcase check-in day (July 24).

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on degree of diﬃculty, ability to follow instructions, and neatness and appearance:

Degree of Diﬃculty (40 points) - Based on the age division. Was it difﬁcult and challenging?

Ability to Follow Instructions (40 points) - Did the youth follow the instructions that came with the kit?

Neatness and Appearance (20 points) - Based on overall neatness and appearance; glue application, if used; decal application, if used; visible nubs or seams; and/or visible gaps.

HOLIDAY CORNER

Contest Rules

• Seasonal and holiday decorations.

• Christmas, Cinco de Mayo, Easter, Hanukkah, Halloween, Independence Day, Mardi Gras, New Year, St. Patrick’s Day, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, etc.

• Examples - wreath, table decor, wall decor, mantle decor, mask, tree skirt, stocking, costume, pillow, etc.

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on originality, execution, general appearance, and degree of diﬃculty:

Originality (40 points) - Unique approach to subject matter. Is there a WOW factor?

Execution (40 points) - Craftsmanship, excellence in skill and technique. General Appearance (10 points) - Visually appealing, clean.

Degree of Diﬃculty (10 points) - Based on the age division. Was it diﬃcult and challenging?

CREATIVE ARTS CONTEST

BUILDING BLOCKS CONSTRUCTION

Contest Rules

• Purchased in a Building Block kit and completed by the youth.

• If materials included in the kit are different from what is speciﬁed in the kit instructions, please note this on the registration form.

• Printed instructions must be submitted with entry on Showcase check-in day (July 24).

Judging Criteria

Degree of Diﬃculty (40 points) - Based on the age division. Was it diﬃcult and challenging?

Ability to Follow Instructions (40 points) - Did the youth follow the instructions that came with the kit?

Neatness and Appearance (20 points) - Based on General Cleanliness - free from dust, ﬁngerprints, and smudges; Decal Application (if applicable) - applied smoothly, no creases or bubbles; Seam and Alignment - bricks should be intentionally aligned for a coherent appearance; and Consistency and Symmetry - demonstrates symmetry and consistent patterns where relevant.

Prohibited Entries

• Instructions not included with entry check-in on July 24.

PHOTOGRAPHY - UNITED WE SHINE - THEMATIC

Thematic Definition

A thematic photo is an image that visually represents a speciﬁc theme or message. For the theme “United We Shine,” the photo should show unity, patriotism, and pride in America as we celebrate 250 years as a nation.

It should show how people, symbols, or moments reﬂect America shining through unity, freedom, and shared pride.

How It Works

▪ the arrangement.

Central Element: The U.S. ﬂag should be the focal point of

▪ meaning, history, or colors.

Supporting Items: Add objects that relate to the ﬂag’s

▪ position that tells a story at a glance.

Purpose: The goal is to create a cohesive, symbolic com-

Strong Photo Ideas for this theme

▪

People holding or displaying the American ﬂag together

▪ Veterans and youth together

A group of different ages or backgrounds standing united

▪ A community gathered at a patriotic event

▪

▪ Flags shining in sunlight

▪ A team huddle with patriotic elements

Candlelight vigil or lights representing hope and unity

▪ Red, white, and blue decorations at a celebration

▪

▪ A parade, memorial, or historic monument

•

CREATIVE ARTS CONTEST

Contest Rules

• Entry must reﬂect the theme “United We Shine - Thematic.

• Photo must be taken by the contestant (contestant must not be in the photo).

• Photo must be submitted online in digital format at time of entry registration no later than 11:59 p.m. on Monday, June 15, 2026, at spjst.org/showcase.

• Files must be in .jpg or .jpeg format, not to exceed 10 MB with no restriction on dimensions (i.e. 8x10, 11x14, 5x7). There is no minimum size requirement; however, the photo must be large enough that it can be clearly evaluated.

• Photo ﬁle should be titled with the contestant’s ﬁrst and last name and a brief description. Example: JohnDoe_ABC River.jpg

• Camera adjustments (exposure, highlights, shadows) are allowed.

• Contestants acknowledge that they have suﬃcient permission of any recognizable location/people appearing in their photo and can produce a model/property release if requested.

• Photo will be judged and displayed digitally.

Judging Criteria

Composition (35 points) - The arrangement of the forms within the photo should be pleasing to the eye. How well did the photographer use the available space within the format? If the rules of thirds are broken, did the result justify that decision?

Exposure (25 points) - The amount of light that enters the camera hitting the camera sensor is called exposure. If not enough light enters the camera and reaches the digital sensor, the image will be too dark or underexposed. If too much light enters the camera and reaches the digital sensor, the image will be too bright or overexposed.

Impact (25 points) - The sense one gets upon viewing an image for the ﬁrst time is impact. This is best explained by the “I wish I'd taken that picture” reaction. Does the image make the viewer feel happy, sad, angry, proud, or another intense emotion?

Creativity (15 points) - Is the image original, fresh, and an external expression of the imagination of the photographer? Did the photographer convey an idea, message, or thought?

Prohibited Entries

• Date, time stamp, or name on photo front.

• Contestant in the photo.

• • Formats other than .jpg, .HEIF or .HEIC ﬁles.

CREATIVE ARTS CONTEST

PICTORIAL ART

Contest Rules

• Entry must be a freehand painting or drawing on paper, canvas, or poster board using paint, ink, pencil, crayon, chalk, markers, watercolors, and/or charcoal.

• May be framed; however, entries will not be behind glass, plexiglass, clear plastic, etc.

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on creativity, composition/design, and mastery of materials:

Composition/Design (30 points) - Arrangement and balance of visual elements

Creativity (30 points) - Impact on viewer, unique approach to subject matter. Is there a WOW factor?

Execution (30 points) - Technique, craftsmanship, excellence in skills in the making of the piece. Mastery of the medium.

Degree of Difficulty (10 points) - Based on the age division. Was it difficult and challenging?

Prohibited Entries

• Entries that are behind glass, plexiglass, clear plastic, etc.

• Additions or embellishments.

SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Contest Rules

• Science experiment, research project, drafting project, collection in which each item is labeled and described.

• A standard science fair-type, three-panel display board that unfolds to 36” tall by 48” wide may be used.

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on creative ability, scientiﬁc thought, and educational value:

Creative Ability (50 points) - In judging the creativity of a project, a judge tries to determine whether the idea for the project is original or clever considering the age division of the participant. What is original or clever for a ﬁrst grader is obviously not very original or clever for a high school student. The actual work done on the project should be completed by the student alone.

Scientiﬁc Thought (25 points) - Judges look to see if there has been an identiﬁcation of a problem. The judge then looks for a hypothesis (an educated guess to the problem). Then the experimentation is evaluated along with the analysis of the data collected. Lastly, the judge considers the appropriateness of the conclusion reached from the data collected.

Educational Value (25 points) - Final evaluations, judges try to determine the thoroughness of the research, again keeping in mind the age division of the participant.

Prohibited Entries

• Live or perishable items, other than plants.

CREATIVE ARTS CONTEST

SPECIAL CATEGORY

Contest Rules

• A surprise contest that is announced on the day and time of the contest.

• Contestants will report to the designated time and location on Friday, July 24, 2025, at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center.

• Contestants will be provided all supplies and instructions and will create their artwork in the allotted 30-minute contest time.

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on originality of design, execution, and general appearance. Originality (40 points) - Unique approach to subject matter. Is there a WOW factor? Execution (40 points) - Craftsmanship, excellence in skill and technique. General Appearance (20 points) - Visually appealing, clean.

VIDEO SHORT

Contest Rules

• This category is all about encouraging youth to think about what is important about SPJST and marketing the message to other youth their ages. Use the power of video to get your message across in a fun and engaging way.

• Create a short (15 to 30 seconds), interesting video using the theme “SPJST - United We Shine.”

• All information presented in the video must be cited, giving credit to the original source. Plagiarism of any kind will result in disqualiﬁcation.

• No copyrighted materials (music, images, video clips, etc.) may be used for this contest unless you own the copyright or have a license to use the material for this contest. Written permission must be obtained and provided upon request for all copyrighted materials.

• Contestants grant SPJST the right to use, reproduce, reprint, distribute, perform, display, and/or exhibit the contestant’s video for advertising, publicity, and promotional purposes on their website, at events, or at any other venues without further compensation or notiﬁcation to the contestant.

• Videos will be judged and displayed digitally.

• Video ﬁle must be submitted no later than Wednesday, July 1 at 11:59 p.m. by uploading to this link:

» https://spaces.hightail.com/uplink/spjst

• Video must be labeled with youth participant’s name.

Judging Criteria

Entries are judged on content quality, memorable and creative, persuasiveness and impact, and production.

Content Quality (30 points) - Does the video clearly make the connection between the youth and their message about SPJST?

Memorable/Creative (30 points) - Is the video original, innovative, and use novel techniques, messages, and methods? This is based on the age division of the contestant.

Persuasiveness/Impact (30 points) - How well does the video draw in the viewer and keep their attention? Clear messages that get the attention of the audience. High impact, youth appropriate, motivational.

Production (10 points) - What is the overall quality of production (including visual and sound elements)?

YOUTH GROUP CONTEST

SCRAPBOOK

Contest Rules

• Scrapbooks may be presented in a traditional (paper) format or a digital (video) format.

• Scrapbooks must include SPJST and the lodge name and number.

• Scrapbooks will include content from 2025 through May 31, 2026.

Judging Criteria

Scrapbooks will be judged on overall presentation, content/storytelling, technical, and collaboration:

Traditional Scrapbook

Overall Presentation (25 pts) – Does the cover promote maximum impact and clarity? Is content relevant to SPJST youth members?

Content/Storytelling (25 pts) – Does the scrapbook capture the youth group's year-long activities and story? Is content pertinent and compelling? Is it organized logically to convey the passage of time?

Technical (25 pts) – Does the scrapbook demonstrate effective layout, design, and scrapbooking technique? Are materials (photographs, captions, graphics, text, embellishments) high-quality and well-utilized? Is it neat, tidy, and consistent in grammar and writing?

Collaboration (25 pts) – Does the scrapbook show teamwork? Is there evidence of contributions from multiple sources who are recognized? Is the story relevant and interesting to others?

Video/Digital Scrapbook

Overall Presentation (25 pts) – Does the opening promote maximum impact and clarity? Is content relevant to SPJST youth members?

Content/Storytelling (25 pts) – Does the video capture the youth group's year-long activities and story? Is content pertinent and well-paced? Is it organized logically to convey the passage of time?

Technical (25 pts) – Does the video demonstrate effective layout, design, and production skill? Are storytelling tools (photographs, animation, footage, text, narration, music, sound) high-quality and well-utilized? Is it neat, professional, and consistent in editing, grammar, and writing?

Collaboration (25 pts) – Does the video show teamwork? Is there evidence of contributions from multiple sources who are recognized? Is the story relevant and interesting to others?

CREATIVE ARTS COUNTRY STORE Country Store

A Country Store will be held during the State Youth Showcase on Saturday, July 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to provide participants in the Christmas Ornament and Dessert - Sweet Rolls categories an opportunity to sell their creative arts and baked items. Participation is mandatory.

Eligibility & Pricing Sales & Pickup

All Country Store items must meet contest rules for their category

Minimum pricing applies (buyers may pay more):

• Christmas Ornament: $10.00

• Dessert - Sweet Rolls: $20.00

• Participants receive all sale proceeds

• Pick up your envelope with sale money after the awards ceremony on Saturday afternoon

• Unsold items released at checkout—SPJST is not responsible for items left behind

TALENT CONTEST

General Rules - Talent

Performance Standards

▪ and props must be respectful, tasteful, and age-appropriate for all attendees.

Entries must be appropriate for family audiences. Performance, attire, music,

Attire must be age-appropriate, non-revealing, comfortable, and functional for ▪ your performance (dancing, gymnastics, singing, playing instruments, etc.).

Talent may include singing, dancing, instrumental, dramatic performance, ▪ comedy, magic, or any performance-related activity.

Registration & Deadlines

Registration closes Monday, June 15 at 11:59 p.m. Register online only at spjst.org/showcase. No email or text entries accepted. File submission deadline: Saturday, June 27 at 11:59 p.m.

Contact person must submit:

Audio ﬁle (MP3) – for sound accompaniment

Video ﬁle (MP4) – dress rehearsal with attire and props

Script (PDF) – for vocals, skits, or recitations

Accompaniment

▪ Vocal performances: Limited background vocals allowed.

Individual or group talent may use live or recorded accompaniment.

▪ Instrumental performances: Same instrument type (live or recorded) may

▪ not accompany. Accompaniment will not be judged.

Technical Requirements

▪

Onsite sound, lighting, and sound engineer provided. ▪ Contestants provide all materials needed for their talent.

Recorded accompaniment: Provide USB ﬂash drive containing only your ▪ competition song, ready for play. Check USB at designated sound check (announced two weeks prior).

Technical diﬃculties: Contestants may restart performance. ▪

Pre-Approval

▪ Director of Member Engagement before the Showcase.

All presentations (script, music, props, attire) require pre-approval by the

▪ ﬁle submissions. Upload link sent via email.

An adult contact person must be listed for all entries and is responsible for

TALENT CONTEST

Talent TIMELINE

June 15 - Entry registration deadline

June 16 - All talent contact persons will receive an email with further instructions and a link to upload talent audio ﬁles, video ﬁles, and scripts.

June 27 - Deadline to upload audio ﬁle, video ﬁle, and script

July 24 (afternoon)/July 25 (early morning) - Sound check

July 25 - Showcase performance

Time Limits

An official timekeeper will be present at the contest.

Individual Talent Setup Time Limit: 2 minutes

Individual Breakdown Time Limit: 2 minutes

Group Talent Setup Time Limit: 4 minutes

Group Talent Breakdown Time Limit: 4 minutes

A penalty of 5 points will be deducted if contestant exceeds the setup or breakdown time limit.

Setup and Breakdown Time Limits

Performance Time Limits

Individual Talent Time Limit: 3 minutes

Group Talent Time Limit: 5 minutes

A total of 5 points will be deducted if a contestant exceeds the talent performance time limit. Timing begins when talent voice, music, or action begins. The time limit does not include the talent introduction.

Judges will be instructed to consider the appropriateness of material used in competition.

Individual and Group Talents will be judged on the following:

Technique (40 points) - degree of skill

Rendition (25 points) - creativity

Stage presence (20 points) - poise/personality

Extra merit (15 points)

Prohibited Entries

Judging Criteria

• Any outside assistance will result in a 10-point deduction to the contestant’s score.

• Entries including, displaying, and/or featuring alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or vulgarity will be disqualiﬁed.

15, 2026.

INDIVIDUAL TALENT (SOLO)

Contest Rules

Contestants will compete for ﬁrst through sixth place recognition in four divisions:

Contest Rules

Kindergarten through 2nd Grade

3rd through 5th Grade

6th through 8th Grade

9th through 12th Grade

GROUP TALENT (2 OR MORE)

A Group Talent is defined as two to more individuals performing an activity together at one time or separately in support of the other members of the group, but group members cannot perform individually to the exclusion of the rest of the group. In other words, three people cannot sing three separate solos, each solo having nothing to do with the other two, and count themselves as a group, or two people sing portions of a song separately, then sing the last two or three notes together.

» Contestants will compete for ﬁrst through sixth place recognition in two divisions:

Junior Group - Kindergarten through 5th Grade Senior Group - 6th Grade through 12th Grade

» The highest grade level of any youth in the group determines the entrant category (Junior Group or Senior Group). A junior youth may compete with a senior group talent, but a senior youth may not compete with a junior group talent.

» Any Group Talent may drop a participant as listed on the entry form, but may not add or replace any participant listed on the original entry form.

BESEDA DANCE EXHIBITION

Beseda Dance Groups

Czechs in Texas have preserved many aspects of their cultural heritage. One of these cultural activities practiced by SPJST youth is the Beseda dance, which is a composite of the many dance steps that were popular in the various provinces and regions of what is now Czechia.

When the people came together for a Beseda, which means visiting or social gathering, they would each perform the dance representing their province. There are actually seven distinctive Beseda dances, one for each of the provinces or regions. The combination of all these folk dances became known as the Beseda dance.

The Česká Beseda is the official form danced in the SPJST Youth Program. The Česká Beseda features the “Heel and Toe Polka,” or “Double Polka.” The polka and waltz steps are the most frequently used steps in the Beseda, and they are usually alternated in the dance.

The Beseda is danced by four couples forming a circle. SPJST Youth Groups are invited to exhibit the Beseda dance at SPJST Youth Showcase and other events.

ROYALTY CONTEST

General Rules - Royalty

The Royalty Contest develops public speaking skills, poise, and conﬁdence—abilities that empower youth in school and life. Mr. and Miss SPJST serve as youth ambassadors, representing SPJST at public events and demonstrating excellence in presentation and communication.

About the Program Program Levels:

Tiny Mr./Miss: K-2nd grade

Little Mr./Miss: 3rd-5th grade

Junior Mr./Miss: 6th-8th grade

Mr./Miss SPJST: 9th-12th grade

Tiny, Little, and Junior programs prepare younger members for future Mr./Miss competition while building stage presence, manners, etiquette, poise, and public speaking skills.

Attire Requirements

All contestants must wear tasteful, modest attire that ﬁts well and is neat and clean. Failure to meet attire requirements results in disqualiﬁcation. The Director of Member Engagement determines appropriateness.

Female Contestants (Tiny Miss, Little Miss, Junior Miss, Miss):

▪

Skirts/dresses must be appropriate length (not too short)

No tight clothing or exposed midriff

Strapless/one-shoulder dresses discouraged

▪

▪ Rules apply during competition and year-round appearances

Prohibited Entries

Contestants are disqualiﬁed if they: Previously held State Royalty title

Were treated for drug/alcohol use in past year

Have facial hair

Have visible body piercings/tattoos (exception: tasteful lower ear jewelry for female contestants)

Have been convicted of any crime or have pending charges

Have engaged in dishonest, immoral, immodest, indecent, or inappropriate behavior

Are pregnant, have been pregnant, or caused a pregnancy

ROYALTY CONTEST

TINY MR. & MISS SPJST

Contest Rules

• SPJST youth in kindergarten to 2nd grade as of the 2026-2027 school year are eligible. (Youth entering kindergarten to 2nd grade in the fall 2026 are eligible.)

Attire

• Tiny Mr. contestants should wear a dress shirt, tie, and slacks. Suits are not required.

• Tiny Miss contestants should wear a nice dress. Formal dresses are not required.

Competition

• Each contestant will enter on stage one at a time and walk to the center of the stage. Each contestant is given 30 seconds to share something absolutely unique about themself. (Please do not exceed 30 seconds.)

• After individual judging, contestants in each category will enter the stage for a group line up and one ﬁnal review by the judges.

Note: The reigning SPJST Royalty will be on stage assisting contestants.

Awards

• Tiny Mr. SPJST and Tiny Miss SPJST

• First Runners-Up Tiny Mr. SPJST and Tiny Miss SPJST

• Second Runners-Up Tiny Mr. SPJST and Tiny Miss SPJST

• Third Runners-Up Tiny Mr. SPJST and Tiny Miss SPJST

• Fourth Runners-Up Tiny Mr. SPJST and Tiny Miss SPJST

• Fifth Runners-Up Tiny Mr. SPJST and Tiny Miss SPJST

The newly crowned winners will be required to take photos immediately following the awards ceremony

Judging Criteria

Contestants will be judged on stage presence, personality, on-stage question, and smile/eye contact.

Stage Presence (30 points) - How does the contestant carry themself? Is the contestant conﬁdent? Do they stand out? Is there anything drawing the judges to the contestant, or do they seem nervous/ﬁdgety? Does the contestant walk/stand with grace?

Personality (30 points) - Does the contestant exhibit poise, charm, friendliness, enthusiasm, and energy?

On-Stage Question (25 points) - Does the contestant speak with clarity? What is the contestant’s knowledge and understanding of their answer? Does the contestant communicate effectively?

Smile/Eye Contact (15 points) - Does the contestant make eye contact with the stage host, audience, and judges? Does the contestant smile?

ROYALTY CONTEST

Contest Rules

• SPJST youth in 3rd to 5th grade as of the 20262027 school year are eligible. (Youth entering 3rd to 5th grade in the fall 2026 are eligible.)

Attire

• Little Mr. contestants should wear a dress shirt, tie, and slacks. Suits are not required.

• Little Miss contestants should wear a nice dress. Formal dresses are not required.

Competition

• After individual judging, contestants in each category will enter the stage for a group line up and one ﬁnal review by the judges.

Note: The reigning SPJST Royalty will be on stage assisting contestants.

Judging Criteria

Contestants will be judged on stage presence, personality, on-stage question, and smile/eye contact.

Personality (30 points) - Does the contestant exhibit poise, charm, friendliness, enthusiasm, and energy?

On-Stage Question (25 points) - Does the contestant speak with clarity? What is the contestant’s knowledge and understanding of their answer? Does the contestant communicate effectively?

Smile/Eye Contact (15 points) - Does the contestant make eye contact with the stage host, audience, and judges? Does the contestant smile?

Awards

• Little Mr. SPJST and Little Miss SPJST

• First Runners-Up Little Mr. SPJST and Little Miss SPJST

• Second Runners-Up Little Mr. SPJST and Little Miss SPJST

• Third Runners-Up Little Mr. SPJST and Little Miss SPJST

• Fourth Runners-Up Little Mr. SPJST and Little Miss SPJST

• Fifth Runners-Up Little Mr. SPJST and Little Miss SPJST

The newly crowned winners will be required to take photos immediately following the awards ceremony.

ROYALTY CONTEST

Contest Rules

• SPJST youth in 6th to 8th grade as of the 20262027 school year are eligible. (Youth entering 6th to 8th grade in the fall 2026 are eligible.)

Attire

Junior Mr. contestants should wear a dress shirt, tie, and slacks. Suits are not required. Junior Miss contestants should wear a nice dress. Formal dresses are not required.

Competition

Each contestant will enter on stage one at a time and walk to the center of the stage. Each contestant is given 30 seconds to share something absolutely unique about themself and what they enjoy most about SPJST. (Please do not exceed 30 seconds.) What you say during your speech is up to you. Make this your time shine!

After individual judging, contestants in each speciﬁc category will enter the stage for a group line up and one ﬁnal review by the judges.

Note: The reigning SPJST Royalty will be on stage assisting contestants.

Awards

• Junior Mr. SPJST and Junior Miss SPJST

• First Runners-Up Junior Mr. SPJST and Junior Miss SPJST

• Second Runners-Up Junior Mr. SPJST and Junior Miss SPJST

• Third Runners-Up Junior Mr. SPJST and Junior Miss SPJST

• Fourth Runners-Up Junior Mr. SPJST and Junior Miss SPJST

• Fifth Runners-Up Junior Mr. SPJST and Junior Miss SPJST

The newly crowned winners will be required to take photos immediately following the awards ceremony.

Judging Criteria

Contestants will be judged on stage presence, personality, on-stage presentation, and smile/eye contact.

Personality (30 points) - Does the contestant exhibit poise, charm, friendliness, enthusiasm, and energy?

On-Stage Question (25 points) - Does the contestant speak with clarity? What is the contestant’s knowledge and understanding of their answer? Does the contestant communicate effectively?

Smile/Eye Contact (15 points) - Does the contestant make eye contact with the stage host, audience, and judges? Does the contestant smile?

ROYALTY CONTEST

MR. & MISS SPJST SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION

Contest Rules

• SPJST youth in 9th to 12th grade as of the 2026-2027 school year are eligible. (Youth entering 9th to 12th grade in the fall 2026 are eligible.)

• Mr. SPJST and Miss SPJST are required to develop a platform of service during their reigns with the help of the Director of Member Engagement. The platform of service is simply a cause the contestant is passionate about that they will support if selected as Mr. SPJST or Miss SPJST. Contestant will also be asked about their community service platform during the on-stage question portion of the competition based on what is submitted on the registration form. The titleholder may not change their platform without permission from the Director of Member Engagement.

Attire

▪ Mr. contestants should wear a suit.

The attire for Mr. and Miss contestants is formal.

▪ Miss candidates should wear a formal dress.

▪ Each contestant will enter on stage one at a time and walk to the center of the stage.

Competition

• On-Stage Interview Question 1: Each contestant is given 60 seconds to share their community service platform and what we can expect from them during their reign as Mr./Miss SPJST.

• On-Stage Interview Question 2: Each contestant is given 60 seconds to answer a question based on information submitted on their registration form.

• Prepared Speech: Each contestant will present a prepared speech on the topic: “United We Shine.”

• The speech must be in the contestant’s own words.

• The speech time limit is 3 minutes. A total of 5 points will be deducted if a contestant exceeds the time limit. Time limit begins with the contestant’s first word.

• If any technical difficulties should arise, the contestant will have the opportunity to restart the speech.

• The royalty speech topic must incorporate SPJST in at least a third of the speech.

• Speech content shall be presented in a positive manner.

• After individual judging, contestants in each category will enter the stage for a group line up and one ﬁnal review by the judges.

Note: The reigning SPJST Royalty will be on stage assisting contestants.

• All Mr./Miss SPJST speech presentations, including script and attire, must be pre-approved by the Director of Member Engagement prior to the Showcase.

• All Mr./Miss SPJST contestants will be responsible for submitting the script and a video of the contestant’s speech presentation recorded during a dress rehearsal. The video must include the complete speech presentation (with attire) as it is to be presented at the Showcase. The script and video ﬁles must be submitted no later than Saturday, June 27 at 11:59 p.m. A link will be sent to the contact person to submit the uploads.

• Video ﬁle (MP4 format) - dress rehearsal of speech presentation including attire

• Script (PDF format) - speech to be delivered for competition.

• Any Mr./Miss entry that does not submit their video and speech script ﬁles prior to Saturday, June 27 at 11:59 p.m. will forfeit their opportunity to compete in the Royalty Contest at the Showcase.

• If a Mr./Miss entry is not approved, the contestant has until Wednesday, July 1 at 11:59 p.m. to modify the entry and resubmit another for review. If the changes are not resubmitted by Wednesday, July 1 at 11:59 p.m. and approved, the contestant will forfeit their opportunity to compete in the Royalty contest at the Showcase.

ROYALTY CONTEST

Judging Criteria

Contestants will be judged on on-stage questions, speech content, speech delivery, stage presence, and personality.

On-Stage Questions (25 points) - Does the contestant speak with clarity? What is the contestant’s knowledge and understanding of their answer? Does the contestant communicate effectively? Does the contestant have passion/interest in being Mr./Miss SPJST, in doing service activities, and representing SPJST? Is the contestant easy to talk to, likeable, interesting and able to hold a conversation?

Speech Content (25 points) - Organization — Does the contestant have a clear structure to their speech? Are transitions used to move effectively between each part of the speech? Does the development of the speech make sense? Does the contestant directly address the prompt? Does the contestant develop justiﬁcations for their ideas and establish signiﬁcance to the points?

Speech Delivery (25 points) - Does the contestant use voice, movement, and expression effectively? Is the speaker conﬁdent? Is there consistent eye contact? Is the volume appropriate?

Stage Presence (15 points) - How does the contestant carry themself? Is the contestant conﬁdent? Do they stand out? Is there anything drawing the judges to the contestant, or do they seem nervous/ﬁdgety? Does the contestant walk/stand with grace?

Personality (10 points) - Does the contestant exhibit poise, charm, friendliness, enthusiasm, and energy? Does the contestant make eye contact with the stage host, audience, and judges? Does the contestant smile?

Awards

▪

Mr. SPJST and Miss SPJST

First Runners-Up Mr. SPJST and Miss SPJST

Second Runners-Up Mr. SPJST and Miss

SPJST

▪ Fourth Runners-Up Mr. SPJST and Miss

Third Runners-Up Mr. SPJST and Miss SPJST

▪ SPJST

Fifth Runners-Up Mr. SPJST and Miss SPJST

Winners must be present for photos immediately following awards ceremony.

Scholarships

Mr. SPJST & Miss SPJST: $2,000 each

First Runners-Up: $250 each

Second Runners-Up: $100 each

Scholarships awarded upon successful completion of reign, high school graduation, and all SPJST Royalty requirements.

Reign Responsibilities

If selected as Mr. or Miss SPJST, you agree to:

Mandatory Appearances

Westfest (ride SPJST ﬂoat)

Temple Christmas Parade (ride SPJST ﬂoat)

SPJST events as requested

Other events determined by Director of Member Engagement

Conduct Requirements

Represent SPJST positively at all times (in-person and online)

Respond to Director of Member Engagement within 48 hours

Pre-approve all appearances and wardrobe with Director

Give 24-hour notice for cancellations (emergency/illness only; must call Director directly—no text/email)

Write thank-you notes within 2 weeks of events/gifts

Notify Director before entering other pageants

Promote your service platform

Maintain clean-cut appearance (no facial hair, visible piercings, or tattoos)

Mileage and meal reimbursement available (approved by VP of Communications).

ROYALTY CONTEST

Title forfeiture

You will immediately forfeit your title, scholarship, and all prizes if you: Get married during reign Become pregnant (Miss) or cause pregnancy (Mr.) Are convicted of a major criminal offense Fail to make required appearances First Runner-Up will assume title.

reigning royalty guidelines

Winners will receive their scholarships upon successful completion of their reigns and SPJST Royalty requirements. If selected as the winner of Mr./Miss SPJST, Contestant agrees to:

• Make the following mandatory Mr./Miss SPJST appearances:

• Visit and tour the SPJST Home Oﬃce in Temple, Texas, and ride in the Temple Christmas Parade on Monday, December 1, 2025;

• Attend and assist at the SPJST State Youth Showcase on Saturday, July 25, 2026

• Represent SPJST at such other events as determined and coordinated by the Director of Member Engagement.

• Develop a platform of service with the help of the Director of Member Engagement. The platform of service is simply a cause that Mr./Miss SPJST is passionate about that they will support throughout their reign.

• Conduct themself at all times during their reign as Mr./Miss SPJST in a manner that reﬂects positively upon himself/herself and SPJST.

• Respond to phone calls and email messages from the Director of Member Engagement and SPJST oﬃcials within 48 hours.

• Give at least 24 hours notice that they will be unable to attend a scheduled function, and may only cancel in case of emergency or serious illness. Mr./Miss SPJST must speak directly with the Director of Member Engagement to cancel an appearance; text messaging and email are not acceptable means of cancellation.

• Have pre-approved by the Director of Member Engagement all oﬃcial appearances and all wardrobe for those appearances.

• At all times represent themself and SPJST in a digniﬁed manner on any public or privately-accessible information sources (such as, but not limited to, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, message boards, personal websites and blogs, etc., and whether by photo or comments posted).

• Provide prior notiﬁcation to SPJST Director of Member Engagement of entry into any competitive pageant

• Promote the service project, the royalty program, and appearances through articles and photos in the Vestnik.

If Miss SPJST becomes pregnant during her reign, she forfeits her title and all prizes.

If Mr. SPJST causes a female to become pregnant during his reign, he forfeits his title and all prizes.

If a winner is convicted of a major criminal offense during their reign, they will forfeit their title and all prizes.

at spjst.org/showcase by June 15, 2026.