FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2026 National Civics Bee® Essay Application Portal Now Open for South King County Middle Schoolers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11/11/2025

Calling all middle school students to share their ideas, showcase their civics knowledge, engage in their communities, and compete for prizes and recognition.
 
Kent, WA – Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools across South King County 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.
 
The first-place winner of the Kent State Finals will earn a trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National Championship in Fall 2026. Finalists who advance to the National Championship 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. Last year, Kent Chamber of Commerce’s local and state finalist, Maanha Nasir, proudly represented our community at the National Civics Bee in Washington, D.C., where she earned an impressive third-place finish among competitors from across the country.
 
Educators, youth leaders, and parents are encouraged to share this opportunity with their middle school students. Educator and student resources are available to help students craft and submit their essays. To access these resources, visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/.
 
The application portal is open now through February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. Students can apply at https://my.reviewr.com/NationalCivicsBee/site/NationalCivicsBee2026. Students without access to the internet or a computer may submit their applications by mail.
 
"The Civics Bee is one of the most impactful programs we offer because it empowers young people to see themselves as leaders and changemakers in their communities," said Zenovia Harris, CEO of the Kent Chamber of Commerce. "By encouraging students to engage with civic issues and share their ideas, we’re not just supporting education—we’re building the next generation of informed, active citizens who will shape the future of Kent and beyond."
 
 
“Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. 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 entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org. For interview requests or additional information, please email info@kentchamber.com. 
 
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About the Kent Chamber of Commerce 
The Kent Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to fostering a vibrant, connected, and thriving business community. Through networking opportunities, marketing support, and educational resources, the Chamber empowers local entrepreneurs with the tools they need to grow and succeed. Each year, the Chamber responds to thousands of inquiries from community members and businesses seeking guidance, underscoring its vital role as a trusted resource and advocate for the economic and social well-being of the Kent community.
  
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.     
  
About the National Civics Bee^®  
The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is an annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state, regional, and local organizations across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.