Sarpy Chamber to Host 2027 National Civics Bee®

The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce is proud to once again partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host the 2027 National Civics Bee® in Sarpy County. Returning for the 2026-2027 program year, this annual, nonpartisan competition invites middle school students to strengthen their civic knowledge, explore issues affecting their communities and develop the skills to become informed and engaged citizens.

The National Civics Bee begins with a written essay application in which students identify a challenge facing their community and propose a solution. Selected finalists advance to live competitions at the regional, state and national levels, where they demonstrate their understanding of civics while competing for prizes and recognition. National finalists will have the opportunity to compete in Washington, D.C., for awards, including a $100,000 contribution to a 529 education savings plan for the national champion.

The application period for the 2027 National Civics Bee opened September 7, 2026, and closes February 2, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (HST). Students in grades 6-8 attending public, private, charter or homeschool programs are encouraged to participate. There is no cost to enter. For application instructions, eligibility requirements and additional resources, visit nationalcivics.bee.org.

"Civic education plays an important role in preparing the next generation to become informed, engaged members of their communities," said Karen Gibler, President and C.A.O. of the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce. "Through the National Civics Bee, students have an opportunity to better understand how government works, think critically about challenges facing their communities and recognize the impact their voices and ideas can have. We are proud to continue supporting a program that encourages young people to take an active interest in the communities they will one day help lead."

For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org. For interview requests or additional information, contact Kathy Jurek at Office@sarpychamber.org.

About the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce

Vision: To be the dynamic leader in advocacy for business and economic prosperity in Sarpy County.
Mission: We will partner with businesses and organizations to educate, advocate and lead.

About U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow.

About the National Civics Bee

The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is an annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics knowledge, skills and engagement among middle school students, their families and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state and local chambers, youth organizations and universities across the country. The program is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, and additional funding partners.