Skill-Based Contest Levels

We’re introducing a new skill-based contest levels for high school contests starting in 2025–2026. This replaces program-based divisions and gives teachers the flexibility to place students where they truly belong based on experience, not program size.

👉 Important: Students may enter any contest category as long as they compete in the level that matches their skill level.

Why the Change?

  • Levels the playing field for programs of all sizes

  • Lets students grow by competing at the right skill level

  • Builds fairness, flexibility, and confidence across contests

High School Contests Levels

  • Beginner (Division III, Year 1 Students): For first-year students. Middle school alumni with advanced skills should not enter here.

  • Beginner-Intermediate (Division II, Year 1-2 Students): For students developing core production and storytelling skills.

  • Advanced (Division I, Year 3+ Students): For highly skilled students ready for complex, competitive projects.

  • Open (All skill levels): For categories that compete together due to lower participation.

Mixed-Level Teams

Entries with students at different levels must compete in the category of the most advanced student on the team.

Middle School Contests

Middle school contests will not offer levels, but middle school programs may “play up” into high school categories if a middle school option is not available.

Contest Availability

  • Large, high-volume contests will offer levels for Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced.

  • Smaller contests will remain as Open categories.

  • Levels may be combined or expanded depending on participation.

Key Takeaway

Teachers can enter students in any category as long as they choose the level that matches skill level. This is about fairness, growth, and opportunity—not trophies.

Thank you for your partnership and for everything you do to support our future storytellers.