National Civics Bee
The Jefferson Chamber Foundation is proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to the Greater New Orleans Region for the 2025-2026 program year.
This annual initiative – now expanding to all 50 states in 2026 – invites middle school students to showcase their civics knowledge, engage in their communities, and build trust in others and institutions through a nonpartisan, multi-round competition.
2025 National Civics Bee Championship winners with Hilary Crow, U.S. Chamber Foundation vice president of civics.
About The Bee
Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools across Louisiana are invited to apply for the 2026 National Civics Bee, a nonpartisan competition created and organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Students begin by submitting a four-paragraph essay proposing ideas to improve their communities, and the top scoring essay finalists will be invited to a live quiz competition in their state. Finalists who advance to live quiz competitions at the regional, state, and national levels have the chance to win prizes and represent their communities. They also strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and form friendships with other young leaders along the way.
inalists 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. Thanks to the generous support of the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school.
Prizes
The essay application portal closes on February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (HST). All students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to apply.
Regional Bee
1st Place: $500
2nd Place: $250
3rd Place: $125
The Jefferson Chamber Foundation will provide a dollar-for-dollar match for all Regional Bee prize awards
State Finals
1st Place: $1,000
Plus a potential $5,000 donation to the state champion’s school
2nd Place: $500
3rd Place: $250
National Championship
1st Place: $100,000
529 Plan Contribution
2nd Place: $25,000
3rd Place: $15,000
