Civil Discourse Project
National Civics Bee
Overview
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation as well as other local Chambers of Commerce across California to host a nonpartisan statewide civics competition. The 2025-26 National Civics Bee® encourages young Americans in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade to engage in civics and contribute to their communities.
About the Competition
About the Competition
The competition, modeled on traditional spelling and geography bees, gives students the chance to win recognition and earn cash prizes by sharing ideas for improving their communities and showing their enthusiasm for civics. The winner of the National Civics Bee® California State Finals will receive a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Civics Bee® national championship in Fall 2026.
Why Civics
We are hosting the National Civics Bee® California State Finals Summer 2026 because we believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge throughout California and celebrating our civic pride.
Highlights from the 2023 National Civics Bee
How To Enter
Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in California with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their essay to participate in one local competition in their state. All essays must be submitted by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.
Students should review the Contest Rules and Essay Guide below and then apply using the following link: 2026 National Civics Bee® Application.
Find a Local Regional Competition Near You
Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
5934 Priestly Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008
McKinleyville Chamber of Commerce
1640 Central Ave, McKinleyville, CA 95519
Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce
17500 Depot St Ste 260, Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce
26442 Beckman Ct y, Murrieta, CA 92562
Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce
614 S Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454
Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce
40 W Cochran St #100, Simi Valley, CA 93065
Vista Chamber of Commerce
170 Eucalyptus Ave #115, Vista, CA 92084
Yorba Linda Chamber of Commerce Foundation
4801 Park Ave, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
STATE FINALS: Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum
40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, CA 93065
Calling All Middle School Students
Share your ideas and flex your civics knowledge in the National Civics Bee®.
Additional Resources and Information
National Civics Bee® Website
Essay Guide
Educator Toolkit
National Civics Bee® Contest Rules – Essay Round
Student Flyer