Submitted by Haley Stafford
(January 9, 2024) — Chairman Sean Hayes has announced that Middlesex County middle school students will have the opportunity to compete in the National Civics Bee for the first time during the 2023-2024 school year. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, organizer of the National Civics Bee, has named the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce as an official partner to host a local competition in 2024.
The National Civics Bee is a competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. This exciting opportunity is extended 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 through Monday, January 22, 2024.
For educators, the program offers valuable resources, including a teacher guide, to introduce the opportunity to their students. Resources are available through the Connecticut Business Industry Association (CBIA) and https://www.middlesexchamber.com/civics-bee/.
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.
Applications are due by the end of the day on Monday, January 22, 2024.
We are now seeking essay judges, sponsorships, and event judges. If you are interested in participating, please contact Sara Mendillo at 860-347-6924 or sara@middlesexchamber.com.
For more information about our local competition, please visit https://www.middlesexchamber.com/civics-bee/.
The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Civic Trust, is an annual competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state and local chambers across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, and other funders.
