Join us for the State Competition!
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
Location: South Middle School (Eau Claire, WI)
Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the 2026 National Civics Bee Statewide Competition on May 9 from 9-12p.m. at South Middle School. This exciting event will bring together some of the top student scholars from across Wisconsin, each selected as a statewide finalist for their outstanding civics knowledge and essay submissions.®
From across the state, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students submitted essays regarding complex issues their communities face, how they propose to fix those issues, and who they would work with. Organized through the U.S. Chamber Foundation, judges from across the nation reviewed the submissions and selected the top 20 to advance to our Statewide Bee.
During the live competition, students will test their understanding of civics through 20 quiz questions, followed by presentations of their essay ideas to a panel of judges. The event celebrates civic engagement, critical thinking, and the next generation of community leaders.
We invite the public to attend this event to join us in recognizing and supporting these exceptional students as they showcase their knowledge and passion for civics!
2024/2025 Wisconsin State Civics Bee® Winner - Leila C. - Eau Claire, WI
About The Bee
The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a first-of- its-kind civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the National Civics Bee® national championship in Fall 2026.
Why Civics?
The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce is participating in the National Civics Bee® 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 in Wisconsin and celebrating our civic pride.
How To Enter
APPLICATIONS HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED FOR 2026.
Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in Wisconsin with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their essay to enter the National Civics Bee® Competition.
National Civics Bee® Essay Prompt
Identify
a specific opportunity, problem,
or challenge in your community. What is
something in your school, neighborhood,
or town that could be improved?
100 words minimum–150 words maximum
Describe
the steps you would take to make
this change. What will you do to make a positive
impact, and why does it matter?
150 words minimum–200 words maximum
Find
support to help bring the idea to life. Think
about student groups, teachers, local businesses,
community organizations, city leaders, or others.
100 words minimum–150 words maximum
Connect
your idea to the values that shaped
our country. How does your idea reflect the
Founding Principles and Civic Virtues of our
country? Use examples from the Founding
Principles and Civic Virtues to show how your idea
reflects the responsibilities of citizenship.
150 words minimum–250 words maximum
Resources
Sponsorship Opportunities
Are you interested in showcasing your company's commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact Erica Bodden, bodden@eauclairechamber.org.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Hope Turvaville, turvaville@eauclairechamber.org or Erica Bodden, bodden@eauclairechamber.org.