Eligibility and Participation
What is the Explore.Act.Tell. Program?
A free, project-based learning program where students in grades 6–12 learn about food insecurity, execute a community service project, and compete for grants.
Who can participate?
Students in grades 6–12. It is open to middle/high school classrooms, afterschool programs, homeschools, and youth organizations (e.g., FFA, DECA, FCCLA, Girl Scouts).
Can multiple classes or teachers from the same school participate?
Yes! Schools can submit multiple projects.
Which states are eligible for grants?
All 50 states can participate, but grant eligibility is currently limited to: AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, DC, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, LA, ME, MD, MA, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, ND, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WY.
Does it cost anything to participate?
All student guides, educator materials, and registration frameworks are 100% free. This program is fully funded by our generous donor, Nourishing Neighbors, a charitable program of Albertsons Companies Foundation.
Program Structure and Alignment
How flexible is the program?
Highly flexible. It provides a framework for a food-focused project, and Outreach Consultants can help adapt the lessons to any schedule.
Do students work individually or in groups?
Both options are welcome.
How long does it take to complete?
Approximately 5.5 hours for the lessons (excluding the project itself). Outreach Consultants can help fast-track lessons if needed.
Can we submit a project completed earlier in the year?
Yes, as long as it was completed during or after May 2026. Consultants can help align past projects with the program components.
Submission, Judging, and Winning
What is the Explore.Act.Tell. Challenge?
The annual competition where teams submit project metrics, a reflection, and a short video/PSA showcasing their work.
Who must submit the final entry?
A registered sponsoring teacher or adult leader must submit the entry, not the students directly. (Moved from Section 4 for better alignment)
Is there a judging rubric?
Yes, educators can access and use the rubric on the website to meet their needs.
Where can we find video tips and examples?
The website’s “Resources” tab features two full examples, a helpful student video, and additional tips. Outreach Consultants can provide extra guidance.
Competition Scope and Success Rates
Can multiple teams from the same district win?
Yes. There can be multiple winners per district, and a single educator can have multiple winning teams.
Are there prizes or grants awarded?
Yes. Winning teams earn grants paid directly to a local public school or 501(c)(3) hunger-relief organization of the students’ choice. The grants given will further efforts to fight hunger in local communities.
Can we see past winners?
Yes, a list of past state winners is available under the “Winners” tab on the website.
Where can we find video tips and examples?
The website’s “Resources” tab features two full examples, a helpful student video, and additional tips. Outreach Consultants can provide extra guidance.