IDAHO FALLS, Idaho – Dec. 1, 2025 – Idaho’s next generation of leaders is being called to step forward. The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce (GIFCC) and Melaleuca: The Wellness Company are proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee® to Idaho.
This marks the first time the National Civics Bee has been held in Idaho, underscoring the state’s growing commitment to civic education and leadership development. All students in grades 6–8 who attend public, private, charter, or home schools anywhere in Idaho are eligible to participate in the National Civics Bee, and they should submit their application by Feb. 3, 2026, through the online portal at idahofallschamber.com/national-civics-bee-idaho.
The National Civics 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, 2026. 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.
The GIFCC and Melaleuca, serving as co-hosts for the Idaho statewide competition, have partnered with the Idaho State Department of Education, BLUUM, and other leading institutions like the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Blue Cross of Idaho, Stukent, and Idaho Farm Bureau. This network of supporters and partners continues to grow, reflecting a commitment to strengthening civic education.
“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.”
Building on that vision for civic engagement, Melaleuca Executive Chairman Frank VanderSloot, who has been a US Chamber board member for over 30 years, added, “America didn’t happen by accident. 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. 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.”
Echoing that commitment to Idaho’s youth, Paul Baker, CEO of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce, said, “The National Civics Bee prepares Idaho’s next generation of leaders to build the future. 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.”
From an education standpoint, Debbie Critchfield, Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction, emphasized how the program aligns with Idaho’s values.
“The National Civics Bee is exactly the kind of program we want for Idaho students,” Superintendent Critchfield said. “As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, there’s never been a better time to strengthen civics education and remind our students what makes America work. This program gives middle schoolers a fun and meaningful way to learn about government, explore community issues, and discover how they can make a difference. I’m especially grateful to see so many business leaders champion this initiative. When education and the business community come together, we inspire the next generation to lead with knowledge, service, and pride in our country.”
National sponsors for the National Civics Bee include the Daniels Fund, Carnegie Corporation of New York, and Citizen Travelers.
About the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow. Learn more at www.nationalcivicsbee.org.
About the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce connects business and community to drive economic growth and prosperity throughout eastern Idaho. Through advocacy, education, and partnerships, the Chamber promotes initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all Idahoans. Visit idahofallschamber.com.
About Melaleuca: The Wellness Company
Melaleuca is a manufacturer and online retailer that enhances lives by developing, manufacturing, and marketing more than 450 health, wellness, and home care products. Headquartered in Idaho Falls, Idaho, Melaleuca serves millions of households across the United States and around the world. Visit melaleucanews.com.
