Q: How does the process work?
A: In January, we contacted Principals of every school in Texas that had a 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. Principals were asked to disperse Nomination Forms to their teachers who were asked to nominate their top students.

Q: Then what happens?
A: When we receive names from teachers, Lone Star State Scholars returns applications and a letter to the teacher for each student nominated. Students then can fill out the application. There is no charge to do so. If they would like a picture to also be included in the book, there is a $10 processing/printing fee.

Q: Are you required to put a picture in the book?
A: No, you are not required to have a picture in the book. You may simply submit your biography, which is completely free. Up to 50% of the participants choose to add a picture to their biography.

Q: When will we hear from Lone Star State Scholars if we submitted an application?
A: You should hear back from us by mid-July. We will send to you a "Proof Sheet" in which we ask you to review what we plan to print and make sure that everything is correct. At that time, you will also receive an order form should you wish to purchase merchandise. If you do not receive this, please contact our office.

Q: Do you print my child's address, phone number, or email in the book or on the Internet?
A: No, this information is provided only to us so that we may be in contact with you. Addresses, phone numbers, and emails do not appear in the book or on the Internet. Only the student's hometown is published.

Q: Do you sell the addresses you collect to a third party, spam lists, or other commercial entities?
A: No, Lone Star State Scholars uses this information only for its own use and does not ever sell any addresses or personal information to other organizations.

Q: How long has Lone Star State Scholars been in business?
A: Lone Star State Scholars is part of a larger network. We started in 1998 by honoring the Best and Brightest 4th-8th graders in the State of Michigan. The idea of honoring students and showing that community service, hard work and good grades do matter, along with our honest nature, quickly caught on and numerous teachers and administrators look forward each year to participating again. In 2003, we expanded to incorporate five additional Midwest states (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota). In 2004, after hearing from numerous parents and teachers, we began honoring third graders. In 2005, we started honoring students in Florida. In 2006, we began honoring the Best and Brightest 3rd-8th graders in Texas. Finally, in 2008, we began honoring students in California.

Q: When would I receive the book?
A: This is a long process! Publishing a high quality book takes time. Considering earlier deadlines, books probably won't arrive until November.

Q: What does the school get?
A: In August, each school receives a certificate recognizing their participation in the program and the number of Scholars from their school.

Q: How do you determine that a student is really deserving?
A: Teachers are given criteria of the type of student we believe is deserving of such recognition. We believe they are the best judge of character and believe in their integrity to nominate only deserving students.

Q: How can I contact you?
A: Email us at info@LoneStarStateScholars.com or call us toll free at 1.877.682.7947.