Middle school students – it’s time to flex your civics knowledge in the National Civics Bee®, sponsored by the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce

The Katy Area Chamber, along with The Katy Foundation, is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a nonpartisan civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating sixth, seventh and eighth 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.

Cash prizes in the local Bee are $500 for first place, $250 for second place and $125 for third place.

Any sixth, seventh and eighth grade student residing in Texas with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate in their state. All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.

Students should review the contest rules at civics.uschamberfoundation.org/student-essay-guide/ and then apply at my.reviewr.com/NationalCivicsBee/site/NationalCivicsBee2026?utm_source=all&utm_medium=promos&utm_campaign=chambers.

Join the Chamber for the local live National Civics Bee event set for Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. A location has not yet been announced. The event is open to the public.

“The Katy Area Chamber 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,” the Chamber said in a statement on its website. “Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in Texas and celebrating our civic pride."