Middle school students from across Southwest Michigan will have an opportunity to compete in the National Civics Bee for the first time during the 2023-2024 school year thanks to the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce.
This comes after the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, organizer of the National Civics Bee, selected the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber as an official partner to host a local competition of the program in 2024.
The National Civics Bee is a competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. This exciting opportunity extends to students in grades 6, 7, and 8, granting them a unique platform to demonstrate their civics knowledge. Students can enter the competition by submitting an essay online beginning November 13, 2023.
Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber commented, “The National Civics Bee will instill the importance of responsible citizenship on area students, thus helping to secure a future of success and prosperity for our region. Our organization is honored to have been selected as an official partner of the program for 2024.”
Participants in the National Civics Bee will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills, and compete for prestigious prizes, including a $1,000 cash prize for the state champion. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship. For educators, the program offers valuable resources, including a teacher guide, to introduce the opportunity to their students.
Michigan Chamber President & CEO Jim Holcomb said, “As our state and country become more divided and too many become disengaged or further removed from civics and democratic processes, this is one essential way to help spark interest and make a positive difference. Informed, active citizens are the heart of thriving communities and economies. We’re stronger together.”
This year, the National Civics Bee is expanding its reach to students in 28 states, with plans for a national competition scheduled for 2024. A three-year, $4.5 million grant from the Daniels Fund will allow the U.S. Chamber Foundation to scale these Bees to all 50 states by 2026. “In these challenging times, fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is of utmost importance. The National Civics Bee provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” said Hilary Crow, Vice President of Civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.
For more information about the National Civics Bee please visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee
