The Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to Arlington for the 2025-2026 program year. Focusing on the Arlington Independent School District in their pilot year, this program 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. All Arlington ISD students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works
“Civic education builds the foundation for responsible leadership,” Chamber President & CEO Michael Jacobson said. “Through the National Civics Bee, we have the opportunity to inspire young people to take an active role in Arlington and see themselves as the next generation of changemakers.”
“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity – and responsibility – to reignite civic learning across the country. 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,” Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation, said.
For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org. For additional information on the Greater Arlington Chamber’s program, email education@arlingtontx.com.
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About the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce brings together public and private-sector strategic partners to identify trends and address challenges that will positively affect the future of our economy and community. As Arlington’s oldest and largest business organization, we are committed to serving our 1,000+ members and advocating for the ‘Can Do’ business community of greater Arlington.
About U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow.
About the National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 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, regional, and local organizations across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.