ABOUT THE BEE
The Odessa Civics Bee is one of many pilot National Civics Bee competitions promoted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. At least 1,000 local middle school students will participate in a first-round essay competition. Judges will select 20 to go to the final round: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge, held at UT Permian Basin on Saturday, April 15th at 9:30AM. Winners will be recognized in their communities and receive prizes.
HOW TO ENTER
If you are a middle school student with an idea about using civics to solve a problem in your community, review the rules and guidelines on this page:
Complete the submission form, including contact information for your parent or guardian, and submit your 500-word essay for consideration.
WHY CIVICS?
We believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. The National Civics Bee is a way to promote greater civics knowledge and civic participation across the country, and to energize our community with a celebration of civic pride.
ESSAY TOPIC
Identify a problem facing your community. How might a citizen solve the problem?
Write a 500-word essay, two pages, double-spaced, that includes the following:
• What way can you contribute to your community? How might others view this problem or opportunity differently?
• What are the ways you can approach this issue?
• What is your idea or recommendation?
• What source provide supporting evidence or examples for your idea or recommendation?
• How might members of your community or neighborhood bring your idea or recommendation to life?
• Who might oppose your idea? How might you respond?
PRIZES
Each finalist will receive a certificate. In addition:
- The First Place Winner will receive a $500 cash prize.
- The Second Place Winner will receive a $250 cash prize.
- The Third Place Winner will receive a $125 cash prize.
Please email carlah@odessachamber.com with any questions.
Thank you to our partners and sponsors: