National Civics Bee accepting entries from Queen Creek-area students

Queen Creek-area students interested in taking part in the 2026-2027 National Civics Bee can now start submitting their application essays.

The Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce partners with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the bee to town.

Middle-school students are invited to showcase their civics knowledge, engage in their communities and build trust in others and institutions through this nonpartisan, multi-round competition.

“Understanding how our community works and how decisions are made is an important part of being an engaged citizen,” Chris Clark, president and CEO of the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce, stated in a press release. “It’s been great to see the students who have participated in this program over the past few years take an interest in the issues affecting their communities and share their ideas.”

This is the fourth year the chamber is hosting the area’s National Civics Bee.  

“The National Civics Bee challenges young people to think critically about the issues facing their communities and the role they can play in addressing them,” Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation, stated in the release. “In the process, students build the knowledge, confidence and real-world skills that help them become engaged citizens and effective leaders, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and succeed in a rapidly changing workforce.”

The contest begins with a written essay and ends with live events at the regional, state and national levels. Finalists who advance to the national championship in Washington, D.C., will compete for cash prizes, national recognition and a $100,000 529-education savings plan contribution.

The essay application portal is now open and closes on Feb. 2 at 11:59 p.m., Hawaii Standard Time. All students in grades sixth-eighth are encouraged to apply.  

For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org.