Katy Junior High Student to Represent Texas at National Civics Bee® in Washington, D.C.
A bright young mind from Katy is heading to Washington, D.C., this November, bringing pride not only to his school but to the entire state of Texas. Katy Junior High student Rishi Tirumalasetty has earned the top honor at the 2025 National Civics Bee® Texas State Finals, securing his place at the upcoming National Civics Bee® Championship.
The National Civics Bee®, an academic contest designed to elevate civic knowledge and engagement among middle school students, challenges participants with rigorous written essays, multiple-choice questions, and oral scenario-based responses. Modeled similarly to the popular geography bee format, the Civics Bee® aims to instill a deeper understanding of American government, history, and the responsibilities of informed citizenship.
Tirumalasetty’s impressive performance at the Texas State Finals not only earned him first place but also a $1,000 cash prize. His journey began at the Katy Area Civics Bee, hosted in April by the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce, where his articulate civic insights and thorough understanding of government processes set him apart from his peers.
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“We are so proud of Rishi for earning this honor and for representing our campus and District at the state competition,” said Carrie Lowery, principal of Katy Junior High. “We wish him the best at the national competition, and his Katy Tiger family will be rooting for him.”
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation spearheads the National Civics Bee® in collaboration with state and local chambers of commerce. The initiative encourages middle school students to explore what it means to be active citizens in a democracy. Students begin their journey through local events, progress to statewide competitions, and ultimately contend for national recognition in the fall.
Representing Katy ISD and the entire state of Texas, Tirumalasetty will compete against finalists from across the country this November in Washington, D.C. The event promises to spotlight tomorrow’s civic leaders—and Tirumalasetty is already proving to be one to watch.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
