HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The Christian County Chamber of Commerce is encouraging local youth to participate in the upcoming National Civics Bee.
A news release from the Chamber of Commerce says the goal of the bee is to get students engaged in civics and contribute to their communities. It’s an initiative from The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Middle school students can apply by submitting a 500-word essay to the National Civics Bee website by Jan. 9. The essays will be reviewed by a panel of judges and the top 20 students in Western Kentucky will be selected to test their civics knowledge by competing in a regional, live quiz competition in Paducah.
The news release says finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including a $500 cash for the first-place student. The top three winners at the Western Kentucky competition will then have a chance to compete against other middle school students from across the state at the state level competition in Louisville.
Schools should have received information about the bee, and teachers can supply support for the essay.
“This is a unique opportunity to work with our students and schools to enhance civics education. We encourage students from all counties in Western Kentucky to apply,” said Sandra Wilson, Paducah Chamber President. “We hope to inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy and engage respectfully and constructively in the community.”
For more information on the essay topic, competition rules and prizes, and for students to submit essays, visit paducahchamber.org/ncb.