Middle schoolers in Idaho have until Feb. 3 to enter the National Civics Bee, a nationwide contest testing civic smarts with prizes that could hit six figures.
The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce and Melaleuca: The Wellness Company are partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to Idaho.
This marks the first time the bee has been held in Idaho. All students in grades 6-8 who attend public, private, charter or home schools anywhere in Idaho are eligible to participate in the bee. They should submit their application by Feb. 3, through the online portal at idahofallschamber.com/national-civics-bee-idaho.
The bee, now in all 50 states, encourages middle school students to deepen their understanding of how government works and to discover how they can contribute to their communities.
The competition begins with a written essay in which students identify a community issue and propose a solution. Judges then select top essays to advance to the statewide live competition, where 20 Idaho finalists will demonstrate their civics knowledge through a quiz-style event before a panel of judges and a public audience.
The National Civic Bee’s Idaho Statewide Competition will be held at Melaleuca Global Headquarters in Idaho Falls on Friday, May 29. Cash prizes will be awarded to several Idaho students, and the first-prize winner will secure a $5,000 donation for their school.
One student will be selected to represent Idaho at the National Civics Bee Championship in Washington, D.C., where they will compete for cash prizes, national recognition and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution.
“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity — and responsibility — to reignite civic learning across the country,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation. “Our hope is that the National Civics Bee inspires more schools to prioritize civics education, equipping young people with a deeper understanding of how our government and democracy work and the essential role they play in strengthening their communities and our nation.”
Frank VanderSloot, Melaleuca executive chairman, builds on that vision for civic engagement.
“America didn’t happen by accident,” VanderSloot said. “It works because generations before us believed in freedom, hard work and the power of free enterprise, and they sacrificed dearly to protect those ideals. Those principles have lifted more people out of poverty and created more opportunities than any other system in history.
“The National Civics Bee helps young people understand why America works and why it’s worth defending,” VanderSloot said. “At a time when so many voices are tearing down this country, our kids need to know the truth about what makes America strong, good and free.”
Paul Baker, CEO of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce, echoes that commitment to Idaho’s youth.
“The National Civics Bee prepares Idaho’s next generation of leaders to build the future,” Baker said. “Since 1904, our chamber has strengthened this community by investing in the people who lead it in business, civic life and service. We support this initiative because strong communities and economies begin with informed, engaged citizens. When students understand how our system works, they’re better equipped to lead, innovate, and serve for Idaho’s future ahead.”
Students interested in competing should begin their essays now to ensure submission before the deadline.
For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org.
Original story from Post Register.
