Calling Upper Arkansas Valley Middle School Students to Share Ideas, Showcase Civics Knowledge, Engage in Communities and Compete for Prizes and Recognition. 

Upper Arkansas Valley middle school students from public, private, charter, and home schools are invited to apply now through February 3, 2026 for the National Civics Bee, a nonpartisan competition created and organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The League of Women Voters Chaffee County (LWVCC) and the BV Chamber of Commerce are organizing this opportunity locally. 

Students enter the competition by submitting a four-paragraph essay proposing a creative idea to improve their communities. Essays will be blind-judged by reviewers from a broader community, and the top-scoring essay finalists will be invited to a live quiz competition in Buena Vista on April 26, 2026. The top three winners will receive a cash award and other prizes, and the top 20 winners will receive prizes.

Finalists who advance to live quiz competitions at the regional, state, and national levels have the chance to win additional prizes and represent their communities. This is an opportunity to strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and friendships with other young leaders will be formed along the way. 

The first-place winner of the Colorado State Finals will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in Fall 2026. Finalists who advance to the National Championship will compete for cash prizes, national recognition, and a $100,000 contribution into their 529 education savings plan. Thanks to the generous support of the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school. 

The application portal is open through February 3, 2026. Students can apply through the application portal available through the links on the LWVCC webpage – www.lwvchaffeecounty.org. Students without access to the internet or a computer may submit their applications by mail. 

“This is the fourth year the League and BV Chamber of Commerce have partnered in this effort to foster and enhance understanding of civics and how we govern ourselves,” said Kathy Rutherford, a former educator and LWVCC point person for the Civics Bee. “This year we hope to expand participation from students from Leadville and Salida and all parts in between.”

Educators, youth leaders, and parents are encouraged to share this opportunity with middle school students. Educator and student resources are available to help students craft and submit their essays through links on the LWVCC website. 

For more information about the Civics Bee in the Upper Arkansas Valley, please contact Kathy at .