National Civics Bee
Calling all middle school students!
Share your ideas and flex your civics knowledge in the National Civics Bee.
About the Bee
Greater Grant County is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a first-of-its-kind civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the inaugural National Civics Bee national championship in Fall 2024.
How to Enter
If you are a middle school student with an idea about using civics to solve a problem in your community, review the rules and guidelines by clicking the button below. Complete the submission form, including contact information for your parent or guardian, and submit your 500-word essay for consideration.
The application opens November 13, 2023, and closes on January 8, 2024.
Resources for Participants
Essay Topic
Identify a problem facing your community. How might a citizen solve the problem? Write a 500-word essay, two pages, double-spaced, that includes the following:
• What way can you contribute to your community? How might others view this problem or opportunity differently?
• What are the ways you can approach this issue?
• What is your idea or recommendation?
• What source provide supporting evidence or examples for your idea or recommendation?
• How might members of your community or neighborhood bring your idea or recommendation to life?
• Who might oppose your idea? How might you respond?
Judging Criteria
Your essay will be evaluated based on how well you:
• Demonstrate an understanding of civics.
• Acknowledge and address opposing points of view.
• Acknowledge and address at least one Founding Principle and one Civic Virtue.
• Use primary sources, like newspapers, data, historical documents, images, or other documents that relate to your idea.
• Clearly describe an idea innovative or new to you.
Join us for the National Civics Bee on Saturday, February 24, 2024 starting at 2:00 PM at Ivy Tech Marion Conference Center.
Why Civics?
Greater Grant County 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 Indiana and celebrating our civic pride.
Prizes
Be a champion for civics! Each finalist will receive a certificate. In addition:
First Place: $500 cash prize
Second Place: $250 cash prize
Third Place: $125 cash prize
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsoring the National Civics Bee offers numerous benefits for businesses and organizations seeking to make a positive impact within our community. Firstly, supporting such events promotes civic education, fostering a knowledgeable and engaged citizenry. By investing in the Civics Bee, sponsors actively contribute to building a well-informed generation capable of understanding complex political issues and making informed decisions.
Secondly, sponsorship provides significant brand exposure and recognition. Aligning your company's name with an educational initiative demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility, enhancing your organization's reputation among consumers, employees, and potential partners. Sponsors can also engage with the community through the event, connecting with students, educators, and families, fostering meaningful relationships and increasing brand loyalty.
Moreover, supporting the National Civics Bee can lead to long-term societal benefits. Encouraging youth participation in civic activities fosters a sense of responsibility and empowerment, nurturing future leaders who can drive positive change.
Help us promote civic education and responsible citizenship with invaluable exposure, community engagement, and the opportunity to shape a better future by empowering the next generation of leaders.
If you're interested in learning more about sponsorship, contact Kylie!
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact us at nationalcivicsbee@gogreatergrant.org or give us a call at (765) 664-5107.