National Civics Bee

Middle School Student Civics Competition

Congratulations, 2026 participants!

The 2026 Regional National Civics Bee competition was held May 19, and featured 17 student finalists representing 4 counties, 5 cities, and 10 schools. Students advanced to the regional competition by submitting essays identifying a community issue and proposing a thoughtful civic solutions demonstrating how individuals, organizations, or government can work together to address local challenges.

This year’s essays tackled a wide range of important topics facing our communities today, including healthcare innovation, public safety, workforce retention, hunger, technology, and more.

Throughout the competition, students competed in two rounds of civics-based multiple-choice questions testing their knowledge of government, history, and civic processes. The top five finalists then advanced to a live question-and-answer round with a panel of judges, where students expanded on their essay topics and demonstrated their ability to think critically and communicate effectively under pressure.

Congratulations to all of our outstanding finalists, and especially to this year’s top finishers, who will represent our region in the state Civics Bee later this summer:

1st Place: Shal Shen for an essay focused on AI in healthcare
2nd Place: Elaine Oberfoell for an essay focused on storm shelters
3rd Place: Raghav Gayatri for an essay addressing Iowa’s brain drain

Events like the Civics Bee help inspire the next generation of engaged citizens and community leaders by encouraging students to better understand how government works and how they can make a meaningful impact in their communities. This year is especially meaningful as our nation prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.

Thank you to the generosity of our sponsors – presenting sponsor U.S. Bank, supporter sponsor Walmart, host sponsor Indian Creek Nature Center and our merchandise sponsor Solberg’s – for helping make this event possible and supporting civic education across our region.

Calling all middle school students!
Share your ideas and flex your civics knowledge in the National Civics Bee®

About the Bee

Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance 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 will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the National Civics Bee National Championship in Fall 2026.

Why Civics?

Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance 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 Iowa and celebrating our civic pride.

How to Enter

The period to enter has now closed. Check back for 2027’s competition!

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in Iowa with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate in their state. All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.

Regional Competition Information

Resources & Additional Information

THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTING SPONSOR

THANK YOU TO OUR MERCHANDISE SPONSOR

THANK YOU TO OUR HOST SPONSOR

Sponsorship Opportunities

Are you interested in showcasing your company’s commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact Pam Logue at plogue@cedarrapids.org.

Have Questions or Need More Information?

Contact Barbra Solberg at bsolberg@cedarrapids.org.