Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute Named Official Partners in California and Washington, D.C. for National Civics Bee

Advancing Civic Learning, Citizenship, and Leadership for the Next Generation of Americans 

SIMI VALLEY, CA. – The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) is proud to announce it will host the National Civics Bee California Regional Finals at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA, as well as the inaugural Washington, D.C. competition at the Ronald Reagan Institute. In its second year, the National Civics Bee aims to inspire young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. 

The inaugural California State Finals of the National Civics Bee took place at the Reagan Library this past summer, where middle school student Arlo Fravien of Orange County was named state champion. The event is part of a national initiative spearheaded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to increase civic knowledge, skills, and engagement among young Americans. Modeled after traditional academic competitions like spelling and geography bees, the Civics Bee encourages middle school students to deepen their understanding of government, democracy, and civic responsibility—all while developing critical writing and public speaking skills. 

“The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is honored to be named an official partner of the National Civics Bee in 2026 and looks forward to again hosting the California State Finals, as well as the inaugural competition in Washington, D.C.” said Dr. Richard Schroeder, Chief Education Programming Officer at RRPFI. “It is a privilege to witness and support bright young minds as they showcase their knowledge of civics and engage with the principles of democracy and public life. Investing in the future leaders of this country is a mission we hold in high regard at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation.” 

RRPFI’s partnership with the National Civics Bee aligns with its educational mission to support and shape the next generation of civic leaders. The Reagan Foundation invests in the next generation through multiple different programs, including its Great American Leadership Program, Ronald Reagan Debate Series, Ronald Reagan Oratory Competition, and Civil Discourse Project. Hosting these regional Civics Bee competitions is another way RRPFI is fulfilling its commitment to encouraging civic knowledge and responsibility among America’s youth.  

Speaking directly to America’s youth in 1983, President Ronald Reagan offered this challenge: “Get a good education; that's the key to success. It will open your mind and give wings to your spirit. There's a dazzling new world waiting for you. My generation only discovered it. But you, by summoning all the faith, effort, and discipline you can muster can claim it for America.”

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About the Reagan Foundation and Institute:
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) is the sole nonprofit organization created by President Reagan charged with advancing his legacy and principles – individual liberty, economic opportunity, freedom and democracy, peace through strength, and national pride. 

A globally recognized nonpartisan organization based in Simi Valley, CA, with a leading policy institute in Washington, DC, RRPFI delivers impactful public affairs programming, policy convenings and projects of national and international significance, and distinctive educational initiatives.  In addition, RRPFI sustains the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, the largest and most visited presidential library, which routinely hosts major special exhibitions. 

An hour from Los Angeles International Airport, RRPFI’s Simi Valley campus sits on 400 acres, serves as the final resting place of America’s 40th President and former First Lady Nancy Reagan, displays a chunk of the Berlin Wall, and houses the plane President Reagan flew as Air Force One to 26 countries.  Onsite are the Reagan Center for Public Affairs, Presidential Learning Center, Air Force One Pavilion, and the Reagan Leadership Center.  More information is available at www.reaganfoundation.org.