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National Civics Bee: Celebrating Bright Minds and Civics

By: Gracie Glover

St. Petersburg Chamber Advocacy Intern 2026

University of South Florida, Tampa Campus, Masters Student

 

This year, the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host the 2026 National Civics Bee regional competition—a nonpartisan event designed to inspire young Americans to engage in civics and make a positive impact in their communities. Middle school students from across the Tampa Bay region put their knowledge to the test for a chance to earn recognition, advance to the state finals, and take home cash prizes.

What Is the Civics Bee?

The National Civics Bee is a nationwide initiative that encourages 6th, 7th, and 8th graders to deepen their understanding of civics and use that knowledge to strengthen their communities. Students begin by submitting an essay identifying a local issue and proposing a thoughtful solution. From there, selected participants compete in a live quiz-style event that blends fast-paced questions with real-world content on April 28th, 2026.

How Students Reached the Competition

This year, middle schoolers from Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties submitted essays highlighting opportunities and challenges in their communities—from environmental concerns to neighborhood improvements. Fifteen students were selected to advance to the regional Civics Bee, where they completed:

  • Two rounds of 10-question multiple-choice quizzes, testing their civics knowledge
  • A finalist round, where the top five scorers participated in a three‑minute Q&A with the judging panel based on their original essays

Their preparation, creativity, and confidence were on full display.

Honoring Our Judges

We were fortunate to have a panel of dedicated community leaders whose insight and encouragement helped shape the experience for every student:

  • Mary Pat King – CEO, Girl Scouts of West Central Florida
  • Stephen Ponzillo – Vice President & Community Relations Officer, Regions Bank
  • Dr. René Flowers – Pinellas County Commissioner
  • Commissioner Chris Boles – Hillsborough County Commissioner
  • Dr. Thomas Smith – Interim Chancellor, University of South Florida St. Pete

Their thoughtful questions and genuine support made the event both meaningful and memorable.

Meet the Winners

Congratulations to our top three finalists:

  • Dwarakayme B.– Pasco County
  • Viacheslav B. – Hillsborough County
  • David M. – Pinellas County

These outstanding students will advance to the State Finals in Tallahassee on June 30, 2026, where they’ll compete against finalists from across Florida.

 

Thank You to Our Hosts and Supporters

A heartfelt thank‑you goes out to our judges, contestants, families, and the entire community for making this event possible. We are especially grateful to USF St. Petersburg for generously hosting the competition and providing a welcoming space for students to shine.

 

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