National Civics Bee Competition
Attention all middle school students: Are you passionate about civics? Here's your chance to shine. The Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a first-of- its-kind civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes.
Essay Portal Opens: October 15, 2024
Essay Portal Closes: February 4, 2025
Why Civics?
The Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce is participating in the National Civics Bee because we believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in Washington and celebrating our civic pride.
About The Bee
The National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics compeition for middle schoolers that increase civics knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities. The compeition is organized by The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation in partnership with local and state chambers of commerce across the county.
How it Works
- Use the 2025 Essay Guide to find the prompt, judging rubric, and tips on how to prepare your 750-word (max) essay.
- Read the Contest Rules.** Public, private, charter, and homeschool students in grades 6–8 who are residents of participating states are eligible.
- You’ll need consent from your parent or guardian to apply.
- The application is now LIVE.
- Top-scoring essay finalists are invited to
compete at local and state bees happening
in Spring–Summer 2025. The top winner from
each state receives a trip to Washington, D.C.,
to compete in the National Championship in
Fall 2025.
- To prep for local and state rounds, finalists
receive a special study guide and complimentary
access to Khanmigo, Khan Academy’s
AI-powered online tutor.
How to Enter
Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in Washington State with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their essay to participate in one local competition in their state. All essays must be submitted by Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Visit nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.
Students should review the Contest Rules and Essay Guide below and then apply using the following link: 2025 National Civics Bee® Application Link.
Essay Prompt
For the 2024 National Civics Bee, middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades must answer the following three questions:
- INDENTIFY a specific problem, challenge, or opportunity in your community. What can you do to contribute to it's improvement. 200 words minimum - 250 words maximum.
- WHAT individuals or organizations would you work with to accomplish your solution? Examples include elected officials, business leaders, and nonprofits. 200 words minimum - 250 words maximum
- HOW does your solution include Founding Principles and Civic Virtues? 200 words minimum - 250 words maximum
Prizes
National Championship
1st Place | $100,000*
2nd Place | $25,000*
3rd Place | $15,000*
State Finals
1st Place | $1,000*
2nd Place | $500*
3rd Place | $250*
Local Bees
1st Place | $500*
2nd Place | $250*
3rd Place | $125*
*Amounts shown are the minimum to be awarded. Finalists should reference the Contest Rules for full prize information.
Participating Washington Chambers
Association of Washington Business (Olympia, WA)
Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce (Vancouver, WA)
Kent Chamber of Commerce (Kent, WA)
Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce (Kittitas County, WA)
South Kitsap Chamber of Commerce (Port Orchard, WA)
Stilly Valley Chamber of Commerce (Arlington, WA)
Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce (Walla Walla, WA)
Willapa Harbor Chamber of Commerce (South Bend, WA)
Interested in hosting in your community? Connect here.
Sponsorship
Are you interested in showcasing your company's commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact our Event Coordinator, Chelsea Stalder.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce Event Coordinator, Chelsea Stalder.
2023-2024 Winners of the National Civics Bee Competition - Regional Bee
1st Place: Megan Meador
Ellensburg Christian School
8th Grade
2nd Place: Noelle Liapis
Ellensburg Christian School
6th Grade
3rd Place: Carly Andrews
Ellensburg Christian School
8th Grade
The evidence is clear: informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce. Our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three, and so does the long-term health of America's economy.
- Carolyn Cawley, President, U.S Chamber of Commerce Foundation
2024 Washington State Finals Recap
Photos from 2023-2024 Kittitas County Competition held on April 6, 2024.