CBIA, US Chamber Launch National Civics Bee in Connecticut

Connecticut middle school students can test their knowledge and compete in the National Civics Bee for the first time during the 2023-2024 school year.

Students can enter the competition by submitting an essay online beginning Nov. 13, 2023.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, organizer of the National Civics Bee, named CBIA as an official partner to host four regional bees and the Connecticut State Finals in 2024.

The regional bees will be hosted by the Bridgeport, Middlesex, and Waterbury Chambers of Commerce. Locations and dates for the competitions will be announced in January. 

The National Civics Bee encourages young Americans in grades six, seven, and eight to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship.

Partnership

“We are proud to partner with the U.S. and regional chambers of commerce to bring the National Civics Bee to Connecticut,” said CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima. 

“These students will grow up to become the next generation of leaders of Connecticut, and this is an incredible opportunity to encourage them to take an active interest in their communities.

“We want to thank the regional chambers of commerce, and our educational partners from the Connecticut Department of Education, Connecticut Association of Boards of Education, Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents, and the Connecticut Education Association for their efforts to bring this opportunity to reality.”

Participants will have the opportunity to compete for prizes, including $1,000 cash for the state champion.

For educators, the program offers valuable resources—including a teacher guide—to introduce the opportunity to their students.

National Expansion

This year, the National Civics Bee is expanding its reach to students in 28 states, with plans for a national competition scheduled for 2024.

A three-year, $4.5 million grant from the Daniels Fund will allow the U.S. Chamber Foundation to scale the program to all 50 states by 2026.

“In these challenging times, fostering a deep understanding of civics and government is of utmost importance.”

U.S. Chamber Foundation’s Hilary Crow

“In these challenging times, fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is of utmost importance,” said U.S. Chamber Foundation vice president of civics Hilary Crow.

“The National Civics Bee provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future.” 

For more information about the National Civics Bee please visit the U.S. Chamber Foundation.

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CBIA is Connecticut’s largest business organization, with thousands of member companies, small and large, representing a diverse range of industries from every part of the state. For more information, please contact Scott Beaulieu (860.244.1929).