Time is running out for students to enter the National Civics Bee
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For the first time ever, Idaho middle school students can compete in the prestigious National Civics Bee, and applications are due soon.
The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce, with support from community partner Melaleuca Inc., has brought this nationally recognized civics competition to Idaho to inspire the next generation of informed, engaged civic leaders. But time is short — sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders must apply by Feb. 3, 2026.
This competition also offers a meaningful opportunity for parents and children to connect. Families can bond through discussions about everyday community issues, helping parents better understand what matters most to their children. It can be both an educational and emotionally enriching experience.
America’s future depends on young people who are informed, engaged and willing to participate in civic life. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, there is no better time to renew our commitment to civic education and to the principles that have shaped and sustained our nation.
“America didn’t happen by accident,” said Melaleuca Executive Chairman Frank VanderSloot. “It works because generations before us believed in freedom, hard work and the power of free enterprise — and they sacrificed dearly to protect those ideals. Those principles have lifted more people out of poverty and created more opportunity than any other system in history.”
For more than three decades, VanderSloot has served on the board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which sponsors the National Civics Bee.
Local educators stand in support of the National Civics Bee
Educators across eastern Idaho are enthusiastic about the Civics Bee coming to Idaho for the first time. School leaders are ensuring application materials are widely shared, while teachers are incorporating the opportunity into classroom instruction.
“I am excited our students will have the opportunity to participate in the National Civics Bee competition. What a great opportunity!” said Karla LaOrange, superintendent of Idaho Falls School District 91. “I will do everything I can to encourage and support our students’ participation in the Bee.”
“Opportunities like the National Civics Bee help students see that learning matters beyond the classroom. When parents, teachers, and the community come together around civic learning, we are investing in informed, engaged young people who will strengthen our communities and our future,” said Dr. Scott Woolstenhulme, superintendent of Bonneville Joint School District 93.
What is the National Civics Bee?
The National Civics Bee challenges students to think critically about their communities, government, and America’s founding principles. Students begin by writing a four-paragraph essay that:
- Identifies a real community problem
- Proposes thoughtful, practical solutions
- Connects the issue to civic education and America’s founding ideals
The top 20 Idaho finalists will be invited to compete in a statewide live competition on Friday, May 29, hosted at Melaleuca’s global headquarters in Idaho Falls.
Big prizes for students and schools
This isn’t just about learning — there are real rewards:
- $1,000 first-place prize for the Idaho state champion
- $5,000 prize for the winning student’s school
- $500 second-place prize
- $250 third-place prize
- Additional prizes available
- The Idaho winner advances to Washington, D.C., for a chance to win a $100,000 prize
Why parents and educators should act now
Civics education builds confidence, leadership and lifelong community engagement — and this program makes learning meaningful and fun. A growing statewide coalition already supports the effort, including the Idaho Department of Education, Idaho National Laboratory, Blue Cross of Idaho, Idaho Farm Bureau, BLUUM and many others.
But none of it happens unless students apply in time.
Parents, teachers and school leaders, please share this opportunity now. The deadline is Feb. 3, and it’s approaching fast.
National Civics Bee: Idaho information & resources
Everything needed to apply and support students can be found here:
Apply HERE – Idaho National Civics Bee Homepage
Helpful resources:
- Educator toolkit
- Essay application guide
- National Civics Bee highlights video
- National Civics Bee website
- Student flyer
- 2026 National Civics Bee contest rules – Phase 1
- How to use the National Civics Bee Educator Toolkit
Don’t miss this historic first for Idaho.
Help students raise their voices, strengthen their communities, and compete on a national stage. You need to act now before the Feb. 3 deadline passes!