Empowering the Next Generation of Informed Citizens
The Santa Maria Valley Chamber 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 6th, 7th and 8th graders are invited to participate in an essay contest where they'll share how they would use civics to solve a local community issue. Individuals with top scoring essays will have the opportunity to flex their civics knowledge at the regional Civics Bee for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to the State Competition, with the opportunity to then advance to the National Competition in Washington, DC in Fall 2027.
Why Civics?
The Santa Maria Valley 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. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in California and celebrating our civic pride.
How to Enter
Our 2026 Civics Bee has concluded - congratulations to our two finalists who advanced to the State Competition! Essay applications and additional details on participating in our 2027 Civics Bee will be available Summer 2026.
Questions about the Civics Bee program? Contact Yuliana Nelson, Director of Member Programs & Engagement, at yuliana@santamaria.com.