Empowering the Next Generation’s Voice – National Civics Bee
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This positive article brought to you is sponsored by the National Civics Bee Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
The phrase “Our kids are our future” has never been more accurate! My students love a good competition at school, and I love highlighting resources for teachers! That’s why I’m spotlighting the National Civics Bee and the importance of civics with our youth today! Engaging in civics isn’t just about politics, it’s about using your voice to shape the world and standing up for what you believe in!
One thing I’ve noticed about the students I work with is that since they have technology at their fingertips, they have access to understanding the way the world works around them – sometimes more quickly than they can grasp understanding. They have a lot of strong opinions on things, and that includes doing good for the community and making their voices heard.
Every single one of us can make our communities a better place. Don’t underestimate the impact even a small action can have.
What is the National Civics Bee?
The National Civics Bee is an annual event that challenges students to flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win cash prizes and recognition! It gives students the space to showcase their knowledge and passion for the United States, its constitution, government and history.
For students with a passion for our nation’s foundation and intricacies, the National Civics Bee gives them the power to inspire passion in others about being an informed and engaged citizen. It allows students to see their role in shaping the future of our nation and to show how their voices matter. There is so much to be learned through the study of history and government.
In 2024, the third annual National Civics Bee will take place in partnership with local and state chambers of commerce. The competition is intended to inspire middle schoolers to respectfully and constructively engage in their community, build greater trust with each other as well as institutions, and be better informed about American democracy.
What grade levels are the National Civics Bee for?
The National Civics Bee is for 6th, 7th and 8th grade students!
How much does it cost to enter the National Civics Bee?
It’s absolutely free! There is no entry fee to participate in the National Civics Bee!
How can you bring the National Civics Bee to your area?
The best way you can support the National Civics Bee being offered in your area is to reach out to your local and state chambers of commerce! Make your voice heard! Tag them on social media with your request, send an e-mail to your local representatives, or even schedule a visit in person to discuss bring this competition to your students! You can find some starter messages and ideas here.
One phenomenal way to bridge the gap between generations is to engage with them and connect through civic engagement. Students can bond with their local communities through intergenerational conversations to understand not only how civics in our country work, but also what part they can play in that.
The National Civics Bee gives students a platform for cultivating and promoting a sense of responsibility in their communities.
When is the National Civics Bee competition open?
Entries are open from November 13, 2023 through January 8, 2024.
How does a student enter the National Civics Bee?
Middle school students compete first in a 500 word civics essay competition. Upon submission, community leaders composed of government officials, educators and business leaders, will then review each of the essay submissions.
The top 20 students are then selected to move forward into the final round of competition which is a live quiz event to test their civics knowledge.
Through their entrance in the National Civics Bee, students will need to analyze complex issues and differing perspectives in order to gain a broader sense of the challenges and resolutions facing our nation.
What are the prizes for the National Civics Bee?
There will be various cash prizes awarded for the local level competition, but the minimum prize amount will be:
- 1st place – $500
- 2nd place – $250
- 3rd place – $125
There will be various cash prizes awarded for the state level competition, but the minimum prize amount will be:
- 1st place – $1000
- 2nd place – $500
- 3rd place – $250
Students will compete for more than $50,000 in prizes on the National level!!!
Finalists at the local and state events may receive additional prizes, certificates, and trophies.
The top three winners on a local level will then have a chance to compete at the state level, and one winner from the state level will then move on to the inaugural national competition.
If your community isn’t already participating, consider bringing the National Civics Bee to your community! Reach out to your local chamber of commerce to see if they would consider partnering for your students! You don’t have to be a teacher to reach out – parents can too!
Help your students pursue excellence as well as take the opportunity to nurture our future leaders and advocates by supporting the National Civics Bee competition.
Click here to see ways you can reach out to your local chamber about bringing the National Civics Bee to your community.
