National Civics Bee Regional Competition

Attention all middle school students: Are you passionate about civics? Here's your chance to shine. The Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce 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.

Day

Hour

Minute

Second

ESSAY PORTAL NOW LIVE

TEST YOURSELF

IN-PERSON COMPETITION REGISTRATION LIVE

Why Civics?

The Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce 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 Washington and celebrating our civic pride.

About The Bee

The National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics compeition for middle schoolers that increase civics knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities. The compeition is organized by The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation in partnership with local and state chambers of commerce across the county.

How it Works

Write an essay proposing your ideas
for improving your community.

Students who participate in the National Civics Bee® gain knowledge about American democracy, practice engaging respectfully and constructively, and build trust in others and institutions. As they compete for prizes, students strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and form friendships with other young leaders along the way.

Submit your essay by February 2, 2027.

The online application portal opened on September 7, 2026, and closes on February 2, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time.

Regional & State Bees

Top-scoring essay finalists are invited to
compete at regional and state bees happening
in Spring–Summer 2027. The top winner from
each state receives a trip to Washington, D.C.,
to compete in the National Championship in
Fall 2027.

Study Guide

To prep for local and state rounds, finalists
receive a special study guide and complimentary
access to Khanmigo, Khan Academy’s
AI-powered online tutor.

How to Enter

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in Washington State with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their essay to participate in one local competition in their state. All essays must be submitted by February 2, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. Visit nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.

Students should review the Contest Rules and Essay Guide below and then apply using the following link: 2027 National Civics Bee® Application Link.

Privacy Policy

Describes personal information collected, used, and shared when you participate in the National Civics Bee®. Learn more here.

2027 Mail-In Application Form

Students unable to submit online may use this Mail-In Application Form to mail their essay application below.

Download Form

2027 Student Flyer

Download Here

2027 Educator Toolkit

Downloadable toolkit with a curated collection of supplemental resources to help bring the Bee to your classroom.

Download Here

Regional Competition Rules

Download the regional competition rules for the 2027 regional bee here.

Prizes

National Championship

1st Place | $100,000*

2nd Place | $25,000*

3rd Place | $15,000*

State Finals

1st Place | $1,000*

2nd Place | $500*

3rd Place | $250*

Regional Bees

1st Place | $500*

2nd Place | $250*

3rd Place | $125*

*Amounts shown are the minimum to be awarded. Finalists should reference the Contest Rules for full prize information. Students who win 1st Place at the State Bee, their school will also receive $5,000.

Sponsorship

Co-Sponsor 2026-2027

The City of Ellensburg, in partnership with the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce, is proud to sponsor the 2026–2027 National Civics Bee Regional Competition. As part of this civic engagement initiative, the Hal Holmes Community Center will serve as a host venue, providing a welcoming and fully equipped space for students to showcase their knowledge of American democracy and the importance of active citizenship.

Located in the heart of historic downtown Ellensburg, the Hal Holmes Community Center is a versatile, accessible event space dedicated to supporting local and statewide educational and community programs. This sponsorship reflects Ellensburg’s ongoing commitment to civic education and youth development across Central Washington. For more information about the City of Ellensburg, visit: https://ci.ellensburg.wa.us

Are you interested in showcasing your company's commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact our Director of Chamber Outreach and Economic Advancement, Katie Schepker, katie@kittitascountychamber.com.

2027 Emcee

David Douglas

David Douglas is a Senior Lecturer at Central Washington University specializing in Information Technology Management. He is passionate about student success and enjoys teaching courses focused on ethics, security, privacy, and professional development in the IT field. David is also dedicated to helping students build meaningful connections and networking opportunities both on campus and within the broader community. He served as the emcee for the National Civics Bee regional competition, bringing enthusiasm, professionalism, and community engagement to the event. Learn more about David here.