NC 4-H Introduces New Online System for Project Records
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:
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.
