The Fayette Chamber proudly announces the launch of the 2025 National Civics Bee®, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Hosted in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in Fayette County will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions.

Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. After a distinguished panel of judges review the essays, the top 20 students will be selected to advance to their local competition: an in-
person live event featuring two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round to test their civics
knowledge. The Fayette Chamber will host its local competition in the spring of 2025. The local
finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including prizes worth at least $500 for the first-
place student.

Participants in the National Civics Bee® will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills and compete for prestigious prizes throughout the competition. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship. Winners from each of the local competitions across Georgia will be invited to take part in the state finals. The first-place winner of the state finals will receive a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete for prizes worth at least $50,000 during the national championship in the Fall of 2025.

"Our democracy is what makes our country what it is today. Yet not a day goes by without citizens questioning what is truthful and factual. The National Civics Bee is a great supplement to what is being taught in the classroom thereby enabling future generations to better understand and appreciate how our government works and runs,” stated Leonardo McClarty, President of the Fayette Chamber.

“Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. 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.