Civics Bee
Empowering students to be the future of civic leadership.
What is the Civics Bee®?
The Roanoke Regional Chamber is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host The Civics Bee®, a national competition that encourages young Americans to propose solutions and demonstrate knowledge of civic engagement. This is the first ever Civics Bee in Roanoke, Virginia!
How to Enter
The Civics Bee® is open to any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in southwest Virginia. Participants submit essays using civics knowledge to improve their community. Regional winners go on to compete in the state competition. Finalists will be invited to Washington, DC, to compete in the National Civics Bee® national championship in Fall 2026.
The Essay Round is now closed
How it Works
If selected you will be invited to participate in a live competition near you. Finalists at regional competitions advance to state competitions, and finalists at state competitions advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C! In 2026, if you win your state competitions, your school could receive a $5,000 donation. Students who participate in the National Civics Bee strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills and form friendships with other young leaders along the way.
You can find our downloadable Educator Toolkit HERE
FAQ
Students in 6th, 7th and 8th grades residing in participating states may apply. Students from public, private, charter, and homeschools are all eligible.
Why Civics?
The Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation believes 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 Virginia and celebrating our civic pride.
Thank You Sponsors
2026 Scholarship Sponsor