National Civics Bee® Returns to Katy, Empowering Middle School Students to Lead Through Civic Knowledge
Middle school students across Katy are being called to think big, speak up, and shape the future as the National Civics Bee® returns to Katy for another inspiring year of competition. Presented by the Katy Area Chamber and The Katy Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, this engaging, nonpartisan event gives students in grades 6–8 the chance to showcase their civic knowledge while proposing real solutions to improve their communities.
The competition is open to all Texas middle schoolers—whether attending public, private, charter, or homeschool—who are ready to dive into democracy, sharpen their writing and public speaking skills, and connect with peers who care deeply about making a difference.
What is the National Civics Bee®?
The National Civics Bee® is more than a contest—it’s a nationwide effort to strengthen civic literacy among young Americans. Designed and hosted by The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Bee aims to empower youth to engage constructively in their communities and better understand how our government functions. With study resources provided in partnership with the Bill of Rights Institute and Khan Academy, the competition blends education with opportunity.
Participants begin their journey by responding to a 4-question essay prompt that invites them to explore how they would tackle a challenge in their community. Applications are due by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. and must be submitted through the official website at nationalcivicsbee.org.
Judges will select top essays to advance to regional in-person competitions in spring 2026. Regional finalists then move on to the Texas State Finals in early summer, and the state’s top civic leader will win a trip to the National Civics Bee® Championship in Washington, D.C. in fall 2026, competing for major prizes and national recognition.
And the best part? It’s completely free to enter.
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Why It Matters: Civic Engagement Starts Young
At a time when civic knowledge is more important than ever, the Bee offers a powerful way for students to learn how government works, form their own ideas, and build trust in democratic institutions. Participants not only improve academically, but also grow in confidence, collaboration, and leadership.
Just ask Rishi Tirumalasetty, a Katy Junior High student who made headlines earlier this year when he clinched first place at the Texas State Finals and went on to represent Katy—and the entire Lone Star State—at the 2025 National Civics Bee® Championship in Washington, D.C.
Tirumalasetty’s journey began right here in Katy at the local Civics Bee hosted by the Katy Area Chamber. With his insightful writing and deep understanding of civic responsibility, he earned the top honor at state and a $1,000 cash prize. His success story is a testament to the power of programs like this in shaping the next generation of leaders.
“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.”
How to Enter the 2026 Competition
Students interested in participating can find everything they need—including the essay prompt, rules, judging rubric, and an essay-writing guide—on the official website. Finalists moving on to live rounds will also receive a study guide and free access to Khanmigo, Khan Academy’s AI-powered learning tool.
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Important Dates
- Essay submissions due: February 3, 2026, by 11:59 p.m. HST
- Regional competitions: Late March – Late May 2026
- State Finals: June – July 2026
- National Championship: Fall 2026 in Washington, D.C.
The initiative is made possible thanks to support from national partners including The Daniels Fund, Citizen Travelers, and the Wilson Garling Foundation.
For families, educators, and students seeking meaningful ways to get involved in civic education and leadership development, the National Civics Bee® is a powerful place to start.
Visit nationalcivicsbee.org to apply, explore resources, and learn more about the competition.
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.
