The Business Council of New York State, Inc. Launches
National Civics Bee
New York State middle school students will test their civics knowledge and compete for national title
(Albany, NY) — New York middle school students will have the opportunity to compete in the National Civics Bee for the first time during the 2023-2024 school year. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, organizer of the National Civics Bee, has named The Business Council as an official partner to host New York State competition in 2024.
The National Civics Bee is a competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. This exciting opportunity extends to students in grades 6, 7, and 8, granting them a unique platform to demonstrate their civics knowledge. Students can enter the competition by submitting an essay online beginning November 13, 2023.
For educators, the program offers valuable resources, including a teacher guide, to introduce the opportunity to their students. Resources are available through The Business Council and local participating chambers.
Local partners include:
- Delaware County Chamber of Commerce
- Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce
- Staten Island Chamber of Commerce
- Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce
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 $1,000 cash prize for the state champion. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship.
This year, the National Civics Bee is expanding its reach to students in 28 states, with plans for a national competition scheduled for 2024. A three-year, $4.5 million grant from the Daniels Fund will allow the U.S. Chamber Foundation to scale these Bees to all 50 states by 2026.
“In these challenging times, fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is of utmost importance. 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.
For more information about the National Civics Bee please visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee. For interview requests or additional information, please [email protected].
About National Civics Bee
The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Civic Trust, is an annual 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 and local chambers across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, and other funders.