(JOHNSON CITY, TENN.) The Chamber of Commerce, serving Johnson City, Jonesborough and Washington County, is partnering with the City of Johnson City again to host Johnson City’s portion of the National Civics Bee competition. A program of the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee in Johnson City, presented by high-speed internet service provider Brightspeed, will take place on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 5-7PM at The Langston Centre.
The National Civics Bee is a program created by the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation, in partnership with The Civic Trust, geared towards promoting civic education among the country’s middle school students. This competition, now in 47 states, will see 6th, 7th and 8th graders perform in a live quiz and Q&A session, with the chance to win cash prizes and compete in the state and national competition.
“The City of Johnson City is grateful to continue its partnership with the Chamber of Commerce to host our second annual National Civics Bee,” said the City’s Public Affairs Director Keisha Shoun. “The participants in this past inaugural competition were so impressive, and we look forward to even greater participation this year.”
Middle school students from public, private, charter and home schools are encouraged to enter the competition by submitting a 750-word essay on a civic issue in their community. After a judging panel reviews the essay submissions, 20 finalists will be selected for the March live event, consisting of two quiz rounds and a Q&A session. The first-place winner will receive $600, second place $300 and third place $175. These top three students will receive the opportunity to compete in the Tennessee State Civics Bee.
The portal for essay submissions is open and will close on February 4, 2025. Past the deadline, essay judging will commence, and finalists will be notified by the Chamber.
The National Civics Bee in Johnson City, presented by Brightspeed, is organized by the Chamber of Commerce and City of Johnson City, with the support of community sponsors including Brightspeed, General Shale, Ballad Health and Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union.
“We had over 60 students participate with the start of this program, and this time, we hope to engage even more,” said Bob Cantler, Chamber President/CEO. “Showing the next generation how they fit into the process of democracy and governing is something we are committed to doing, and the National Civics Bee program is one of the best ways to do it.”
For more information on essay topics, competition rules, live event information and application steps, visit www.johnsoncitytnchamber.com/civicsbee.
###
About the Chamber
The Chamber of Commerce, serving Johnson City, Jonesborough and Washington County, is a 501-C6 organized to promote business, enhance economic and community development, and serve as a catalyst for improving the overall quality of life in the community and region. It is also supported by the Chamber Foundation, a 501-C3 dedicated to promoting education, leadership and business development programs. Through strategic programming, advocation and resources, we position our members to achieve their greatest business and community potential. For more information, visit www.johnsoncitytnchamber.com.