National Civics BeeĀ® ā Coming to Monticello!
The Monticello Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is proud to host a nonpartisan National Civics BeeĀ® competition that inspires young Americans to engage in civics and make a positive impact in their communities.
Students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade will have the opportunity to showcase their civics knowledge for a chance to earn recognition and cash prizes. Local winners will advance to state-level competitions, and finalists will be invited to Washington, D.C. in Fall 2026 to compete in the National Civics BeeĀ® Championship.
National Civics BeeĀ® ā Coming to Monticello!
The Monticello Chamber of Commerce is proud to be one of many Chambers across the nation selected to host the National Civics BeeĀ®, an exciting competition promoted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
This unique event invites middle school students to showcase their civic knowledge and problem-solving skills. The competition begins with a first-round essay contest, where students share their ideas for strengthening their communities. From these entries, 20 students will advance to the final round: a live quiz event that puts their civics knowledge to the test.
Finalists and winners will be recognized in the community and awarded prizes. The top three local winners will move on to the Minnesota state competition, and the state champion will advance to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Civics BeeĀ®āwith a chance to win their share of $50,000 in prizes!
Calling All Middle School Students!
Do you have a great idea for how civics can help solve a problem in your community? Enter the National Civics BeeĀ® Essay Competition for your chance to share your ideas and be recognized!
To participate, review the rules and guidelines and submit your essay through the Essay Portal (link below). Youāll need to create an account to complete your submission.
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How to Apply: Visit National Civics Bee Website for the application portal, official rules, deadlines, and resources.
š Application Link :
2026 National Civics Bee Application
Essay Deadline: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Why Civics?
Civics education matters. Informed and active citizens build a stronger nation, a stronger economy, and a stronger workforceāand our future success depends on the strength of all three. The National Civics BeeĀ® is designed to inspire greater civics knowledge and participation, while bringing communities together in a celebration of civic pride.
Judging Criteria
Essays will be evaluated on how well you:
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Demonstrate a strong understanding of civics
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Acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints
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Reference at least one Founding Principle and one Civic Virtue
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Use primary sources such as newspapers, data, historical documents, or images to support your idea
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Clearly describe an idea that is innovative or new to you
Earn recognition and cash prizes!
Finalists participating in each local bee as well as in the state competition for Minnesota will be eligible for recognition and cash prizes.
Local & Regional Civics Bee Competition Prizes:Ā
Each local finalist will receive a participation certificate. There will be one third-place winner receiving a trophy and $125, one second-place winner receiving a trophy and $250, and one first-place winner receiving a trophy and $500.
Minnesota State Finals Competition Prizes:
Each state finalist will receive a participation certificate. There will be one third-place winner receiving a trophy and $250 and one second-place winner receiving a trophy and $500. One first-place winner will receive a trophy, $1,000, plus a potential $5,000 donation to the champion's school.
āNational Competition Prizes:Ā
Each national finalist will receive a participation certificate. There will be one third-place winner receiving a trophy and at least $15,000, one second-place winner receiving a trophy and at least $25,000, and one first-place winner receiving a trophy and a $100,000 529 Plan Contribution.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Partnering with the National Civics BeeĀ® is a powerful way for businesses and organizations to make a lasting impact in our community.
By sponsoring this event, you:
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Support civic education ā helping students become informed, engaged citizens prepared to strengthen our country, economy, and workforce.
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Gain brand visibility and recognition ā align your company with a respected educational initiative that demonstrates your commitment to social responsibility and community impact.
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Build meaningful connections ā engage directly with students, educators, families, and community members, creating relationships that foster loyalty and trust.
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Invest in future leaders ā inspire youth participation in civic life, nurturing the next generation of responsible, empowered changemakers.
Together, we can celebrate civic pride, promote civic education, and create opportunities for young people to lead with knowledge and confidence.
Be part of shaping a stronger futureābecome a sponsor of the National Civics BeeĀ® today!
Resources & Additional Information
LIVE REGIONAL EVENT INFO-Coming Soon!
- March 21, 2026
- Time TBD
- Monticello Middle School Auditorium, Monticello, Minnesota