St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce Launches National Civics Bee

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Southern Maryland middle school students will test their civics knowledge and compete for national title

The St. Mary’s Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the launch of the 2025 National Civics Bee, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Hosted in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in St. Mary’s County will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions.

Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. After a distinguished panel of judges review the essays, the top 20 students will be selected to advance to their local competition: an in-person live event featuring two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round to test their civics knowledge. The St. Mary’s County Chamber will host its local competition on March 29th, 2025. The local finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including prizes worth at least $500 for the first-place student.

Participants in the National Civics Bee will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills and compete for prestigious prizes throughout the competition. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship. Winners from each of the local competitions across Maryland will be invited to take part in the state finals. The first-place winner of the state finals will receive a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete for prizes worth at least $50,000 during the national championship in the Fall of 2025.

“This is such an exciting opportunity! Middle School students are invited to write a short essay on an issue that concerns them in their community and how they can have an impact through the lens of civics. Attendees at the live event are also encouraged to test their civics knowledge along with the students.” Said Christine Bergmark, CEO/President of the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce.

For more information on entering or sponsoring the National Civics Bee in Southern Maryland visit: National Civics Bee - St. Mary's County Chamber of Commerce (smcchamber.com)

About National Civics Bee

The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s The Civic Trust, 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 and local chambers across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.
 
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