National Civics Bee
About the Bee
The National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle schoolers that increases civics knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities. The competition 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.
Why Civics?
The McKinleyville 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 California and celebrating our civic pride.
How it Works:
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Write an essay proposing your ideas
for improving your community.
- Use the 2026 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.
Submit your essay by February 3, 2026.
- The application is open September 8, 2026- February 3, 2026
- Students are encouraged to submit essays before the deadline!
How to Enter:
Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in California 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 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. Visit nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.
Humboldt County Regional Competition Hosted by McKinleyville Chamber of Commerce: Spring 2026, Date, Time, & Location – TBD
Students should review the Contest Rules and Essay Guide below and then apply using the following link: 2026 National Civics Bee® Application Link.
Additional Resources
Essay Prompt
For the 2026 National Civics Bee, middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades must answer the following four questions:
1. IDENTIFY a specific opportunity, problem, or challenge in your community. What is something in your school, neighborhood, or town that could be improved? 100 words minimum–150 words maximum
2. DESCRIBE the steps you would take to make this change. What will you do to make a positive impact, and why does it matter? 150 words minimum–200 words maximum
3. FIND support to help bring the idea to life. Think about student groups, teachers, local businesses, community organizations, city leaders, or others. 100 words minimum–150 words maximum
4. CONNECT your idea to the values that shaped our country. How does your idea reflect the Founding Principles and Civic Virtues of our country? Use examples from the Founding Principles and Civic Virtues to show how your idea reflects the responsibilities of citizenship.
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*
Regional 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. Students who win 1st Place at the State Bee, their school will also receive $5,000.
Opportunities to Be Involved:
Be an Essay Judge
Prominent logo placement, featured mentions in all event materials, and exclusive networking opportunities.
Be a Local Civics Bee Judge
Local Civics Bee Judges- Information on how to participate coming soon!
Logo display on event banners, recognition in press releases, and access to VIP seating.
Be a Sponsor
Be a Sponsor- See Info Below
Inclusion in event program, opportunities to speak at the event, logo on signage, social media recognition, acknowledgment during the event.
Sponsorships
Are you interested in showcasing your company’s commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available sponsorships, please contact Jesse at jesse@mckinleyvillechamber.com
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Jesse at jesse@mckinleyvillechamber.com, 707-839-2449, or visit our office at 1640 Central Ave, McKinleyville, CA 95519.
