County Chamber Launches National Civics Bee

DELHI — The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce recently announced 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 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 from across New York State are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. After a 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 Delaware County Chamber will host its local competition in the spring of 2025. 

Participants in the National Civics Bee will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills, and compete for prestigious prizes, including a $500 cash prize for the county champion. 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 New York 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. 

“Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. The National Civics Bee® provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.

More information, including student and teacher resources and an online portal for essay submission, is available under the Event and Programs tab at www.DelawareCounty.org.