National Civics Bee competition to come to Arizona

Arizona middle school students during the 2023-2024 school year will have the opportunity to compete in the National Civics Bee for the first time. Chambers of commerce across the state will serve as hosts of regional competitions whose winners will advance to the state competition in 2024 hosted by the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee is a competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. The competition is open to students in grades 6, 7, and 8, granting them a unique platform to demonstrate their civics knowledge. Students can enter the competition by submitting an essay online beginning November 13, 2023. 

For educators, the program offers valuable resources, including a teacher guide, to introduce the opportunity to their students. 

Participants in the National Civics Bee will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills, and compete for prestigious prizes, including a $1,000 cash prize for the state champion. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship. 

This year, the National Civics Bee is expanding its reach to students in 28 states, with plans for a national competition scheduled for 2024. A three-year, $4.5 million grant from the Daniels Fund will allow the U.S. Chamber Foundation to scale these Bees to all 50 states by 2026.

“In these challenging times, fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is of utmost importance. The National Civics Bee provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.

Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry President and CEO Danny Seiden said he’s excited that the competition is coming to Arizona. 

“As the first state to require students to pass a civics test to graduate from high school and with the creation of the annual Sandra Day O’Connor Civics Celebration Day where the majority of K-12 instruction is focused on civics, Arizona is a leader in civics education,” he said. “It is critically important to the nation’s future that all students learn about the founding and principles of our American democracy and how to participate in our civic and democratic process. The Arizona Chamber has long been a champion of efforts to enhance civics education and promote civil discourse. We are proud to serve as an official partner and host of the National Civics Bee to celebrate the achievements of students statewide in civics education.”

Visit the National Civics Bee website for more information.