The National ACT-SO Organization
The ACT-SO program is designed to recruit, stimulate, improve and encourage high academic and cultural achievement among African-American high school students. ACT-SO provides an instrument through which African-American youth are encouraged and inspired toward excellence in academic and cultural pursuits while benefiting from the maximum support of their communities.
Excellence in Academic & Cultural Achievement
ACT-SO conducts annual academic competitions for students in grades nine (9) through twelve (12) in NAACP Branches throughout the country in accordance with the published guidelines of the National Office and oversight of the National Director of ACT-SO Program. The program affords the same respect for African-American scholastic and cultural achievement that is given to athletic heroes.
Recruit, stimulate, improve and encourage high academic and cultural achievement among African-American high school students
Provide maximum community support for youth excellence
Recognize and celebrate academic and cultural achievements
Create pathways to higher education and career opportunities
Join ACT-SO Today
Ready to showcase your talents and compete at the highest level? Join our ACT-SO program and unlock your potential.
20+ Ways to Excel
From STEM to the arts, find your passion and compete in categories that showcase your unique talents and interests.
Architecture
Design and structural innovation
Biology/Microbiology
Life sciences and research
Chemistry
Chemical sciences and analysis
Computer Science
Programming and technology
Culinary Arts
Cooking and food presentation
Dance
Choreography and performance
Dramatics
Theater and dramatic arts
Drawing
Artistic illustration and sketching
Entrepreneurship
Business innovation and planning
Fashion Design
Clothing and accessory design
Film Production
Video creation and editing
Music Instrumental
Musical performance and composition
Music Vocal
Singing and vocal performance
Oratory
Public speaking and presentation
Painting
Artistic painting and color work
Photography
Visual storytelling through images
Poetry
Creative writing and verse
Sculpture
Three-dimensional artistic creation
Short Story
Creative narrative writing
STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering, Math
Celebrating Excellence
Meet our outstanding ACT-SO participants who have achieved remarkable success at local, regional, and national levels.
Kearston Gonzales
Oratory
Exceptional performance in oratory, demonstrating powerful public speaking skills and compelling delivery that captivated judges and audiences at the national level.
Kendall Gonzales
Poetry
Outstanding poetry performance showcasing creative writing and expressive delivery that impressed judges with its depth, creativity, and emotional impact at the regional competition.
Ready to Get Started?
Join the ACT-SO program and take the first step toward academic and cultural excellence. Contact us today to learn more about registration and requirements.