QUEEN CREEK, AZ – On Friday, April 24, the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2026 National Civics Bee Regional Competition aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle schoolers that increases civic knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities.
“Each year, the National Civics Bee reminds us how much promise and talent exists in communities across the country. Students step up with thoughtful solutions, bold ideas, and a willingness to participate—exactly the qualities our democracy and workforce need. We’re proud to support a program that strengthens civic knowledge and skills for all young people and helps build the foundation for a stronger future.” said Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Students across the country submitted essays on issues in their communities, which were then reviewed by a distinguished panel of judges. Top students were selected to compete in Queen Creek’s Regional Competition: an in-person, live event featuring two rounds of civics quiz questions followed by a Q&A in which students discussed their proposals for improving their communities. Gideon J. from Payne Junior High School took first place, followed by Adelaide W. and Angel G. for second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were: Town of Queen Creek Vice Mayor Bryan McClure, Christin Barros, and Debbie Callarman.
The top three finalists impressed the judges with their understanding of civic principles and related systems, and their use of specific examples and evidence on how their identified problem would solve the community.
The first-place winner received a $500 cash prize and will advance to the state competition hosted by the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry along with other top finalists. The top state winners will receive various prizes, up to $1,000. The state’s first-place winner will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in the Fall of 2026, where they can win a grand prize of a $100,000 contribution to a 529 plan. The second-place finalist will receive $25,000, and the third-place National finalist will receive $15,000.
“Congratulations to all the finalists and students who participated! The National Civics Bee is an invaluable opportunity for our young people to deepen their understanding of civic responsibilities and to inspire them to contribute positively within their communities. We are proud to host this competition for the third year and to support the development of future leaders who will uphold the values and principles that are foundational to our democracy.” said Chris Clark, President and CEO, Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce
Thank you to our sponsors: Arizona State University, Salt River Project, and Southwest Gas.
For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/
###
About Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce
We were formed in 2002 to solve problems so you can thrive because strong businesses create strong communities.
About U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow.
About the National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is an annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state, regional, and local organizations across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.
