Dear State Teen Directors,

Over the past several months we have been faced with several issues regarding explicit, inappropriate, and/or controversial photos of state and local contestants or titleholders. We understand this is a sensitive subject for all. We feel one of the best ways for our state and local directors to handle these controversial situations is by making sure all contestants sign the "State and Local Contract" BEFORE they compete in the pageant.

Please take some time to review the contract. As you will see, it clearly explains the expected behavior and “morals clause" to the contestants. The contract will protect you and will also supply additional information about the program to your contestants should the contestant or the parents have any questions.

Unlike the Miss America Organization, we (MAOT) are dealing with minors. The consequence of mishandling this type of information could be very dangerous. The law protects juveniles from exploitation and we (MAOT, Inc) cannot allow our organization to become the conduit for this kind of abuse. Your discreet management in this situation is crucial and cannot be taken lightly. Please be sure your organization is above reproach if you receive information about a contestant or titleholder.

We are currently working on set procedures that should be followed in the event you receive this type of information about a contestant. We will be sending this to you in the next few weeks.

I cannot stress enough the importance of the signed contract. The national office is not liable for any legal issues that may arise at the local or state level. It’s imperative that you have signed contracts from each contestant PRIOR to the competition to protect you and your organization.

Please review this information with each of your local directors.

Sincerely,

Kim Parrish, President
Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, Inc.