Sara Washburn, Norton resident, is out to prove that she is not just a pretty face.

The 13-year-old has been chosen to compete in the Nationals American Miss Pageant to take place Aug. 4 to 6. She got an invitation through the mail for the pageant. Her mother, Stacy Washburn, was hesitant at first because she knows the negative connotations of many pageants. But this one was different. Participants age 12 and under are not allowed to wear makeup or go tanning. In Sara’s age group, minimal makeup is allowed.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for her to meet all kinds of people,” Stacy said.

Sara has two brothers; Matthew, 17 and Devin, 10. She is in the seventh grade and would like to work with kids when she is older. Sara enjoys bowling and volunteered for her brother’s special needs league, which could give her a leg up on the community involvement portion of the pageant.

Contestants will be scored 30 percent on a personal introduction, 30 percent on formal wear poise and appearance, 30 percent on communications skills in an interview and 10 percent on participating in a community involvement project on the weekend of the pageant.

“Good communication and presentation skills are what we want to recognize and encourage,” says the website. “Braces, glasses, skin problems, varying heights, and many other conditions are all just part of being young. The judges are giving you scores based on where you are in life, just the way you are.”

Additional optional competitions are also offered. Washburn will be participating in the Most Photogenic contest. She will submit up to four photos to be judged.

Winners will receive $500,000 in cash and prizes including a VIP trip for two to Disneyland and a modeling scholarship. The photogenic contest will award $250 in cash and a trophy.

Sara must raise a $440 sponsor fee to go to the competition. At this point she has raised $240. To help pay for Sara’s sponsor fee send cash or checks made payable to National American Miss with her name and state on the subject line. For more information contact Stacy Washburn, stamatt05@aol.com or 508-406-1886.