Calling All Middle School Students!
Share your ideas and show off your civics knowledge in the National Civics Bee®.
About the Bee
The Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce is one of many Chambers across the nation hosting the National Civics Bee competitions promoted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Middle school students will participate in a first-round essay competition. Judges will select 20 to go to the final round: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge. Winners will be recognized in their communities and receive prizes. The top three will go on to the state competition, with the state finalist sent to Washington, D.C. for the national competition and their shot at $50,000 in prizes!
How to Enter
If you are a middle school student with an idea about using civics to solve a problem in your community, review the rules and guidelines by entering the Essay Portal (below). Complete the submission form, including contact information for your parent or guardian, and submit your 500-word essay for consideration.
Essay Portal to Open Fall 2024
Essay Topic
Identify a problem facing your community. How might a citizen solve the problem? Write a 500-word essay, two pages, double-spaced, that includes the following:
• What way can you contribute to your community? How might others view this problem or opportunity differently?
• What are the ways you can approach this issue?
• What is your idea or recommendation?
• What source provide supporting evidence or examples for your idea or recommendation?
• How might members of your community or neighborhood bring your idea or recommendation to life?
• Who might oppose your idea? How might you respond?
Judging Criteria
Your essay will be evaluated based on how well you:
• Demonstrate an understanding of civics.
• Acknowledge and address opposing points of view.
• Acknowledge and address at least one Founding Principle and one Civic Virtue.
• Use primary sources, like newspapers, data, historical documents, images, or other documents that relate to your idea.
• Clearly describe an idea innovative or new to you.
Why Civics?
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. The National Civics Bee is a way to promote greater civics knowledge and civic participation across the country, and to energize our community with a celebration of civic pride.
Prizes
Each finalist will receive a certificate. In addition:
First Place: $500 cash prize
[Sponsored by the Brookings County Bar Association]
Second Place: $250 cash prize
Third Place: $125 cash prize
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsoring the National Civics Bee offers numerous benefits for businesses and organizations seeking to make a positive impact within our community. Firstly, supporting such events promotes civic education, fostering a knowledgeable and engaged citizenry. By investing in the Civics Bee, sponsors actively contribute to building a well-informed generation capable of understanding complex political issues and making informed decisions.
Secondly, sponsorship provides significant brand exposure and recognition. Aligning your company's name with an educational initiative demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility, enhancing your organization's reputation among consumers, employees, and potential partners. Sponsors can also engage with the community through the event, connecting with students, educators, and families, fostering meaningful relationships and increasing brand loyalty.
Moreover, supporting the National Civics Bee can lead to long-term societal benefits. Encouraging youth participation in civic activities fosters a sense of responsibility and empowerment, nurturing future leaders who can drive positive change.
Help us promote civic education and responsible citizenship with invaluable exposure, community engagement, and the opportunity to shape a better future by empowering the next generation of leaders.
Sponsors
This initiative wouldn't be possible without the support of our sponsors. Thank you to each and every business, organization and individual who contributed to the betterment of our community!
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsors
Brookings County Bar Association
Local Family - Anonymous Donor
Silver Sponsors
Brookings County Republicans
Brookings County Democrats