QUEEN CREEK, AZ – On Friday, March 28th the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 National Civics Bee in Queen Creek, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Logan G., Annamay B., and Peyton J. were named the top three finalists of the National Civics Bee in Queen Creek, organized in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
“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 second 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
“We are facing a civics crisis in America. Surveys show that 70% of adults cannot pass a basic civics quiz, and 79% of 8th graders fall below proficiency in civics. This threatens the strength, prosperity, and resilience of our nation. The National Civics Bee is dedicated to enhancing civics knowledge, skills, and disposition among young people and adults alike, inspiring the next generation to make a positive impact in their communities.” said Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
After a distinguished panel of judges reviewed the essays, the top essay finalists from the first-round civics essay competition were selected to advance to their local competition. 19 Local Finalists participated in the Queen Creek local competition: an in-person live event featuring two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round to test their civics knowledge. Logan G. from Highland Junior High School took first place, followed by Annamay B. and Peyton J. for second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were: Queen Creek Town Council Member Bryan McClure, Angela Askey of Central Arizona College, and Sarah Nieto of Queen Creek Independent.
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 the other two finalists. The top state winners will receive various prizes, and the first-place winner of the State Finals will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in the Fall of 2025. Prizes at the National Championship include a grand prize of a $100,000 529 plan for first place, $25,000 for second place, and $15,000 for third place.
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host the National Civics Bee Arizona State Finals on Friday, May 2nd at ASU’s Thunderbird Global School of Management.
For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: National Civics Bee® – Queen Creek Chamber
Thank you to the sponsors of the National Civics Bee in Queen Creek: Chick-fil-A Ironwood and Ocotillo, and Combs Performing Arts Center.
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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 National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s The Civic Trust, 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 and local chambers across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.
