Florida middle school students will test their civics knowledge
and compete for national title
The Institute for Governance and Civics at Florida State University will host the 2025 State Championship of the National Civics Bee®, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities.
Hosted in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in Florida will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions.
"I'm thrilled that FSU will host the first Florida state championship," said Ryan Owens, director of the Institute for Governance and Civics and FSU professor of political science. "This initiative is great for Florida's families, showcases FSU's commitment to our state's future, and highlights the positive impact the IGC will have. We're fired up to get people excited to learn about the constitution and American civics."
Participants in the National Civics Bee® will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills and compete for prestigious awards, including prizes worth at least $1,000 for the state champion and $50,000 for the national winner. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship.
The IGC will host the National Civics Bee® Florida State Finals in May 2025. Finalists from local competitions across Florida will be invited to take part in the state-level competition. Students will participate in a live quiz event and answer questions from judges to test their civic knowledge. The winner will receive a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the national championship in the fall of 2025.
"Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America," said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. "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."
Additional details will be announced at a later date.
