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NC 4-H Introduces New Online System for Project Records

— Written by Jacob Hanlon — Contributors: Lauren Hoesli, Shannon McCollum | July 17, 2026

North Carolina 4-H is excited to announce a new option for completing 4-H project records. Beginning with the 2026 program year, members may complete their project record online through Kaleidoscope, marking the first step in a transition toward a fully digital project record system.

The development of this project has been underway for several years. During that time, the state 4-H team has worked to redesign project records for a digital environment. The system has undergone pilot testing and feedback from 4-H members, volunteers, and staff to help refine the experience before statewide implementation.

Introducing Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope is an online application platform used by organizations to manage awards, scholarships and other application-based programs. NC 4-H has contracted Kaleidoscope to provide a modern, user-friendly way for members to complete project records electronically.

Through the platform, members can:

Save their progress throughout the year

Return to their project record at any time

Generate a completed record for printing

By providing a more accessible and flexible way to complete project records, Kaleidoscope supports both the needs of today's 4-H members and the future direction of the program.

Preparing Youth for the Future

This transition is part of NC 4-H's ongoing effort to modernize parts of our programming and prepare youth for success in an increasingly digital world. As most scholarships, college applications, internships, and career opportunities increasingly rely on online application systems, moving to an online system will allow the next generation of leaders to develop valuable skills in digital record keeping, organization, and written communication.

Accessibility is another important factor in this initiative. Web-based systems can better support screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies, helping NC 4-H improve compliance with accessibility expectations established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Moving online helps ensure more members can fully participate in the project record process.

The online project record maintains the same general structure and requirements as the traditional format while providing a more streamlined experience, allowing members to update activities, achievements, project work, and reflections throughout the year.

While the long-term goal is to move toward a fully online system where project records can be both completed and submitted electronically, the transition will occur gradually to ensure counties, volunteers, families, and members have time to adapt to the new process.

What This Means for 2026

For the 2026 program year (project records documenting 2026 activities), project records completed through Kaleidoscope must still be printed and submitted as physical copies through county 4-H programs. Electronic submission through Kaleidoscope is not available at this time.

Recognizing that some members and counties may need additional time to adjust to the new system, NC 4-H will continue to offer alternative formats during this transition year.

In addition to Kaleidoscope, members may choose from the following formats:

• Fillable Google Doc version, which can be completed electronically
• Printable PDF version, which can be completed by hand

All three formats will be accepted for the 2026 program year. Regardless of which format is used, project records must still be printed and submitted according to county instructions and deadlines.

The 2026 program year represents an important milestone in the transition process. By introducing Kaleidoscope as an option now, we can continue gathering feedback and refining the online project record experience for future generations of 4-H members.

Looking ahead, we aim to eventually integrate features such as online submission, reviewer feedback within Kaleidoscope prior to submission, and electronic review and judging following submission.

At this time, portfolios cannot be completed through Kaleidoscope and must be completed using the traditional portfolio format.

We encourage members, volunteers, and families to explore Kaleidoscope and become familiar with the new system.

Summer Fun Update

It is that time of year again and folks are signing up for lots of summer fun.  We just wanted to give you an update on our current programs. 

4-H Adventure Seeker Camp is currently full.  If you are interested we can put you on a waiting list in case someone should drop out.

  4-H Jr. Chef is currently full.  Again if you are interested we can put you on a wiating list in case someone should drop out.

4-H Jr. Master Gardener-We do have a few slots available for this camp.  When youth are done they will be nationally certified as a Jr. Master Gardener.  We will also be taking two field trips, to the NC Zoo and NC Life Science Museum in Durham.  Our other days will be at the office having fun planting, playing games, and making all sorts of things that will come home for our youth to teach you about.  This is a great week long experience and we hope your 9-13 year old will join us.  The cost includes supplies, lunch, two snacks, and field trips.

4-H Van Camp is for our 14-18 year olds.  This camp was designed and requested by our 4-H Youth.  They will get a behind the scenes of what it takes to run an entertainment business.  The opportunity to plan a trip, work within a budget, and learn about vehicle maintenance.  They will get to go to a variety of places and we will even have one night in Charlotte.   Cost covers hotel, food, and supplies for this camp.

4-H Biotech is an immersive sciences camp for our 9-13 year olds.  We will travel around the state to explore STREAM opportunities and have one day at the office for hands on technology fun.  This is a favorite of our youth and we work hard not to repeat any trips so that youth have a chance to experience new things every year.

4-H Cloverbud Day Camp is for our 5-8 year olds.  We will have a theme day everyday that week and they will get a chance to make their afternoon snacks each day.  Our hope is to get them back into a school schedule and learn about working as part of a team and increase communication skills as they get ready to head back into the classroom.  The cost includes lunch each day and two snacks a day.

To learn more about these camps or to register and pay please go to our Eventbrite registration at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1988028093544?aff=oddtdtcreator 

Upcoming Livestock Events in the State

 

What: NC Sheep & Goat Roundup

When: June 5-7

Where: Randolph County Agricultural Center, Asheboro

Who: This event is open to youth who are showing Sheep and Meat Goats. There will be breeding, market, and prospect shows for both sheep and goats. Additionally, we will have other educational contests for youth to participate including a Skillathon Contest. Youth do not have to be showing sheep or goats to participate in the educational contests. 

What: Locust Hill Cattle Livestock Judging Contest

When: June 12

Where: Locust Hill Cattle, Pelham, NC 

Who: Livestock Judging Contest for youth wanting to put their livestock judging skills to the test.

What: NC 4-H Skillathon & Livestock Judging Clinics

When: June 15-16

Where: E Carroll Joyner Beef Educational Unit, Raleigh

Who: This event is open to youth who want to learn more about Livestock Judging and Skillathon Contests. It is a wide overview of Animal Science related topics and a good introductory level event.

What: NC 4-H State Livestock Judging, Skillathon, & Quiz Bowl Contests

When: July 30- August 1

Where: NCSU Campus

Who: This event is open to 4-H age youth in NC. These contests are designed to showcase the skills and knowledge surrounding the livestock industry.

What: NC Junior Beef Roundup

When: August 7-9

Where: Mountain State Fairgrounds, Fletcher,

Who: This is open to youth under the age of 21 who are showing Cattle. In addition to the livestock shows we will have other educational contests for participants. 

JMG News

 

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BIWEEKLY UPDATE | MAY 2026 Sprouts Foundation Grants Horticulture STEM Teacher Workshop Learn, Grow, Eat, & Go! Camp Open Nominations for JMG Group of the Month The Gardens Summer Celebration Dinner Tonight Recipe: Cowboy Caviar Enroll Your JMG Students for FREE!

Apply today for a Sprouts Foundation Grant!

The Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation is now accepting applications for several grants, each offering up to $5,000. Check out these two grant opportunities: Sprouting School Gardens Grant: This grant brings hands-on learning and nutrition education to life by supporting school gardens and classroom cooking programs. Grants are up to $5,000 and support school-garden program operations, program supplies, and educator stipends. Organizations must be schools or 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating programs on a school campus in communities where Sprouts Farmers Market operates stores in order to apply. Growing Healthy Kids Grant: This grant supports community-based programs focused on children’s nutrition access, nutrition education, and health and wellness. Grants are up to $5,000 and support hands-on programs for children and their families that emphasize nutrition education, physical education, mental well-being, or nutrition security. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in communities where Sprouts Farmers Market has stores in order to apply.  Grants are accepting applications now through June 1st. Don't miss out on this awesome opportunity! Click here to learn more and apply for a grant!

Elementary & Middle School Teachers: Register for the Horticulture STEM Teacher Workshop! Horticulture STEM Teacher Workshop: Join us for a one-of-a-kind STEM workshop for elementary through middle school teachers, built around the science of gardens and natural systems. This highly interactive professional development experience will focus on horticulture, water science, entomology, garden tech, and soil science, with plenty of hands-on learning throughout the day.👏👏 Available Continuing Education Units (CEUs): 6 hours - Issued by Texas A&M University, certified by TEA Event Date and Time: Wednesday, June 17, 2026: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Location: The Leach Teaching Gardens at Texas A&M University 556 John Kimbrough Blvd. College Station, Texas 77843 Click HERE to register for the STEM teacher workshop! In College Station for Texas 4-H Roundup next month? Join JMG for our NEW Learn, Grow, Eat, & Go! Camp! Camp Dates: June 2-4, 2026 @ The Gardens at Texas A&M University Hosted by The Junior Master Gardener Program and The Gardens at Texas A&M University, this energizing camp is designed for young learners who are eager to explore the path from garden to plate. Rooted in the Junior Master Gardener Learn, Grow, Eat & Go! curriculum, this experience blends gardening, nutrition, and activity into an unforgettable adventure. Throughout the camp, participants will:  Learn how plants grow and what they need to thrive through hands-on gardening activities in The Gardens. Discover the importance of wholesome eating by exploring fruits and vegetables, tasting fresh produce, and making simple garden-inspired snacks. Participate in fun crafts, activities, and games that will deepen their understanding of how agriculture shows up in our daily lives and promotes an active lifestyle. Earn their Junior Master Gardener Learn, Grow, Eat & Go! Certificate! This half-day camp offers a meaningful opportunity for kids to connect with nature, build healthy habits, and develop a lifelong appreciation for gardening and wellness. Click here to learn more! Register HERE! Don't Forget: Nominate your students today for JMG National Group of the Month! NOMINATION CRITERIA:  A. Within the last 12 months, your group has utilized any JMG program curricula/resources to support your youth garden project at your campus/site. B. Within the last 12 months, your group has been registered as an Official JMG Group at https://JMGkids.us/enroll. There is no cost for registration. C. This nomination form is completed/submitted by the JMG group’s teacher/leader. Click here to apply for JMG National Group of the Month! Looking for some summer fun? Join us for The Gardens Summer Festival! When? Saturday, June 13th, from 9 am to 11:30 am Where? The Gardens at Texas A&M University The Gardens are turning 8, and we want to celebrate with you! Join us for a morning of family-friendly fun at our annual Summer Celebration. Enjoy refreshments as you stroll through The Gardens and visit our various educational demonstrations and activity tables. This is a free event open to the community! Click here to learn more! Dinner Tonight Recipe: Cowboy Caviar Cowboy Caviar is a fresh and colorful way to incorporate vegetables into your meals. Packed with ingredients like tomatoes, corn, black beans, and peppers, it provides fiber, vitamins, and protein that support overall health and daily nutritional needs. Click here for the full recipe!