What it is: The National Civics Bee® is a competition that inspires middle school students to learn about civics, sharpen their leadership skills and share ideas to strengthen their communities.
- Students compete through essays, local Bees hosted by chambers, the State Finals at the Capitol in Lansing — and one champion from the Great Lakes State advances to the national stage in Washington, D.C.
What’s new: The 2025–26 cycle is now open in Michigan. Students can submit 500-750 word essays through Feb. 3, 2026 to enter.
Why it matters:
- Michigan led the nation in essays last year – let’s keep that momentum going.
- Civic knowledge is alarmingly low with surveys showing:
- Just 22% of 8th graders are currently proficient
- 70% of adult Americans fail a basic civic literacy quiz on topics like the three branches of government or the number of U.S. Supreme Court justices.
- Nearly 2/3 of young people would be willing to give up their right to vote to keep social media.
- Informed, active citizens make for strong communities across our state and country as well as a thriving economy and workforce.
The big picture: As America approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, this opportunity is one powerful way to spark civic interest and combat apathy and political divides while growing the next generation of leaders.
What you can do: Help spread the word. Encourage parents, teachers and business and community leaders you know to connect middle schoolers with this opportunity. Consider serving as a sponsor or essay judge.
Learn more: Read our announcement or visit michamber.com/micivicsbee. Plus, catch this overview interview.