Record Book Competitions
Where and how are 4-H Record Books reviewed and evaluated?
Club Review
4-H Record Books are first reviewed at the local level by 4-H Community Club/Unit Leaders and Project Leaders. Club level evaluation is based on the Danish system where 4-H Record Books are judged against a standard. Seals are awarded based on the member’s 4-H project work, personal growth and the book’s organization. Through their personal achievements and 4-H participation, members may earn Star Rank recognition.
The Incentives and Recognition Advisory Committee provides a state approved Record Book Evaluation form for Club use. All 4-H Clubs that host a Record Book review must use this evaluation form.
Instructions for how to administer the Club Record Book evaluation are available from the county UCCE 4-H office.
For information on virtual evaluation and helping members record virtual participation, you can find more information here.
County Competition
Members may submit their 4-H Record Books for county competition. Books are evaluated on the member’s 4-H work, leadership and citizenship development, and personal growth. County level evaluation should be based on the Danish system with all books judged against a standard. Evaluators provide a critique and suggestions for future growth and involvement.
Instructions for how to administer the County Record Book evaluation are available from the county UCCE 4-H office.
For information on virtual evaluation and helping members record virtual participation, you can find more information here.
County Record Book Evaluator Orientation

This short course is designed for adult volunteers and senior member youth who volunteer at the county level to evaluate Record Books at County Competition. Youth members enter Record Book competitions as an optional opportunity to receive feedback on their 4-H record-keeping and 4-H skills development. The course gives an overview of the evaluation rubric, how to score and how to write helpful comments. You will receive an electronic badge and a certificate upon completion. Thank you for your time and talent to provide encouragement and support to 4-H youth.
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State Competition
For information regarding the State Record Book Competition, see the State Competition page.