About the National Civics BeeĀ®
The Louisa County Chamber of Commerce, Louisa Forward Foundation, and Louisa County Public Schools partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics BeeĀ® to Louisa County. This nonpartisan competition encourages middle school students to deepen their understanding of civics, explore issues that matter to their communities, and develop ideas for making a positive difference.
For us, civic engagement is also an investment in Louisa Countyās future. Strong communities, a thriving economy, and a prepared workforce depend on informed, engaged citizens and emerging leaders. By helping young people build civic knowledge, critical-thinking skills, and confidence in their ability to contribute, the National Civics BeeĀ® directly supports our commitment to leadership development and a stronger Louisa County.
COMPETITION STAGES TO NATIONALS
Students who participate in the National Civics BeeĀ® gain knowledge about American democracy, practice engaging respectfully and constructively, and build trust in others and institutions. As they compete for prizes, students strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and form friendships with other young leaders along the way.
STEP ONE
Write Your Essay
Use the 2027 Essay Application Guide to access the prompt and support materials.
STEP TWO
Review Contest Rules & Privacy Policy
Before you apply, review the 2027 Essay Round Rules and Privacy Policy.
STEP THREE
Submit your essay by February 2, 2027
Portal will open on September 7, 2026. Deadline to submit is February 2, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time.
LIVE COMPETITIONS
Regional Competition
Top 20 essay winners compete in a 90-minute, in-person event featuring two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round. The top three winners receive cash prizes and advance to the State Finals.
State Competition
Local winners compete in their State Finals, another 90-minute live event featuring three rounds. The top three finalists receive cash prizes, and the winner advances to the national competition.
National Competition
State champions receive a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the national-level competition hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
GET INVOLVED
There are many ways to help inspire civic engagement and support Louisa Countyās next generation of leaders.
EDUCATORS
SHARE WITH STUDENTS
Access ready-to-use resources, including the Educator Toolkit and student promotional flyer, to introduce and promote the National Civics BeeĀ® to students.
BUSINESSES
SUPPORT THE PROGRAM
Support local students and civic engagement by sponsoring the National Civics BeeĀ® or volunteering to help bring the competition to life.
COMMUNITY
ENGAGE WITH PROGRAM
Discover ways your organization or leadership can support student participation, promote civic engagement, and help strengthen the next generation of Louisa County leaders.