Gallatin Area Chamber

National Civics Bee ®

May 1, 2025

Location – The Station!

Write a 750-word essay on our prompt and you’re in!

Calling all middle school students! Share your ideas and show off your citizenship skills in the National Civics Bee®

Our National Civics Bee, hosted by the Gallatin Area Chamber of Commerce with support from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is the perfect opportunity to dive into American democracy and showcase your civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. The business community thrives on active participation, and our collective future depends on informed and engaged citizens like you!

2024-25 National Civics Bee® Competition Timeline:

Tuesday, October 15, 2024: Essay Application Portal opens
Tuesday, February 4, 2025: Essay Submission Deadline
February 6-12, 2025: Essay Judging Window
February 14 – 24, 2025: Finalist Confirmation Window
February 14 – 24, 2025: Finalist Confirmation Window
Friday, May 16 – Saturday, August 30: State Bees take place
Fall 2025: National Championship takes place in D.C.

ABOUT THE BEE

The National Civics Bee® is an annual contest designed to encourage young Americans to explore the world of civics and make a positive impact in their communities. It begins with an essay challenge open to all local 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students. Then 20 finalists will be selected to compete in a live quiz event where their civics knowledge will be put to the test. The top 3 winners will advance to the state competition, representing Gallatin with pride.

HOW TO ENTER

Participation is simple! If you’re a middle school student, submit your 750-word essay on the following prompt:

“What is one way you would improve your local community, and how would you make it happen?”

Essays must be submitted by February 4, 2025.

Ready to get started? Check out the Essay Writing Guidance.

PRIZES

Be a champion for civics! All finalists in the National Civics Bee local competition will receive a certificate of participation.

Local 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.

Local prizes are awarded to local winners.

Top finalists will get to compete for grand prizes including a $100,000 529 plan contribution for the national champion.

WHY CIVICS

At the Gallatin Chamber, we believe that a vibrant community thrives on active and informed citizenship. Civic engagement is crucial for fostering a strong economy, supporting a skilled workforce and securing our ongoing prosperity.

By participating in the National Civics Bee, we aim to enhance civic knowledge and encourage young individuals to take an active role in their communities. This initiative not only strengthens our local ties but also inspires future leaders to contribute positively to society.

Join us in celebrating and advancing civic pride through this impactful competition.

Test your Civics knowledge!

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.

Register as an essay judge for the 2025 National Civics Bee®!

Thank You To Our Sponsors

Sponsors: Highpoint Health Sumner with Ascension St. Thomas, The Gallatin Chamber of Commerce, The Chamber Foundation.

Are you interested in showcasing your company’s commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available sponsorships, please contact kim@gallatintn.org

Contact us!

If you have any questions about the National Civics Bee, please email us at info@gallatinchamber.com.