Upper Arkansas Valley middle school students from public, private, charter, and home schools have until February 17, 2026 to submit short essays proposing a creative idea to improve their communities for the National Civics Bee. With so much discourse on national issues these days, the Civics Bee provides an opportunity for young people to think about and share their innovative ideas about enhancing their own communities. Participation can strengthen communities, civics knowledge, writing and public speaking skills. It’s also a pathway to creating bonds with other young leaders.
Students from Leadville to Salida and parts in between are encouraged to participate in the Arkansas Valley Civics Bee by submitting a four-paragraph essay proposing their unique idea to improve their communities. Essays will be blind-judged by reviewers, and the top-scoring 20 essay finalists will be invited to the live quiz competition in Buena Vista on April 26. All 20 essay winners will receive prizes. The top five finalists at the live competition will present their essay to the audience and answer questions from the judges. Once judging is completed, the top three finalists will advance to the state competition and receive cash and other prizes.
The first-place winner of the Colorado State Finals will earn a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the National Championship in Fall 2026. State winners who advance to the National Championship compete for cash prizes, national recognition, and a $100,000 contribution into their 529 education savings plan. With support from the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school. A student from Buena Vista participated in the National competition in 2024.
The application portal is open through February 17, 2026 and links can be found on the League of Women Voters Chaffee County webpage – www.lwvchaffeecounty.org. Students without access to the internet or a computer may submit their applications by mail.
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.
The National Civics Bee is 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 the regional competition in the Arkansas Valley.
For more information about the Arkansas Valley Civics Bee, please contact Kathy at .
