The Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation will bring the National Civics Bee to the Santa Maria Valley for the 2025-26 program year.

The annual initiative – now expanding to all 50 states in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 – invites middle school students to showcase their civics knowledge, engage in their communities, and build trust in others and institutions through a nonpartisan, multi-round competition.

The National Civics Bee begins with a written essay and culminates in live events at the regional, state, and national levels. Finalists who advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C., 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.

The essay application portal is now open and closes at 1:59 a.m. Feb. 3 PST. All students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to apply. For more, visit https://www.santamaria.com/education-workforce/civics-bee/.

“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity, and responsibility, to reignite civic learning across the country,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.

“Our hope is that the National Civics Bee inspires more schools to prioritize civics education, equipping young people with a deeper understanding of how our government and democracy work – and the essential role they play in strengthening their communities and our nation,” Crow said.

For more about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org.