The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of the Fredericksburg Regional Civics Bee, bringing the 2026 National Civics Bee® to students across Planning District 16, including Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.
Presented locally by the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce in partnership with WorkForce NOW, presented by the Oberle Academy, the Civics Bee is a nonpartisan competition hosted nationally by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The program is designed to inspire middle school students to engage in civics, deepen their understanding of democracy, and explore ways they can make a positive impact in their communities.
The competition is open to 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students, who will submit a short essay on a civic issue they care about by February 3, 2026. Essays will be evaluated by a panel of judges, with top submissions advancing to the Fredericksburg Regional Civics Bee, a live, quiz-style competition scheduled for April 15, 2026.
Winners of the regional competition will receive cash prizes, $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $125 for third place, with additional prizes possible based on sponsorship support. Regional winners will advance to the Virginia State Finals in Williamsburg, and the top state champion will move on to compete in the National Civics Bee in Washington, D.C.
Educators will have access to a comprehensive Educator Toolkit, along with student flyers and an essay application guide, to support classroom integration and student participation.
In addition to student participation, the Chamber is seeking community and business sponsors to help expand the program, increase prize opportunities, and support civic education throughout the region.
Schools, educators, parents, and potential sponsors can learn more about the competition and how to get involved by visiting the Chamber website HERE