* Business Attire & Personal Introduction (25%) — Each contestant will have 15-30 seconds to introduce herself to the audience (name, grade and school) while modeling a business/professional outfit onstage. Contestants will be asked their first onstage question at this time - one related to the information on their application. Judges will be looking for energy and confidence in the delivery, as well as poise onstage.
* Theme Outfit (25%) — This is a chance for each contestant to show their sense of creativity and their individuality. The outfit can be anything - a dress, pants, shorts, skirts, dressy, or even glitzy! This is a fun outfit, so think outside the box. The outfit must only fit the theme - this year, CRAZY 80s! Effort in design, creativity, confidence, and poise onstage are evaluated.
* Evening Gown (25%) — Presentation in Evening Gown is the finale competition and gives each contestant the opportunity to capture the audience and judges through her personality, poise, and grace in a floor-length gown. Contestants should focus on choosing a gown that makes them feel their absolute best. If it puts a huge smile on your face, there’s a good chance it’s the one! During the evening gown competition, contestants will be asked their second onstage question. The question will be non-political and age-appropriate.
*Interview (15%) — Contestants will meet with the judges prior to the start of the pageant for 10 minute, individual interviews. They will be questioned on their background as presented on their application, their goals, their opinions on age-appropriate current events, social issues, and their interests, hobbies and extracurricular activities. Scoring is based on communication skills, including first impression, personality, intelligence, confidence, and presence.
* Application (10%)— Scoring in this category is based on the completeness of the application (and reference letter, if applicable), the quality of extracurricular and community service activities, and whether the candidate possesses the overall attributes of a Queen.
The highest scoring application in the community service category will receive a separate award.
* OPTIONAL Talent — For those competing in the talent portion of the competition, contestants will be scored based on a combination of technique, presentation and poise.