The National Civics Bee® in Loudoun
About the Bee
The Loudoun Chamber Foundation is partnering with the U.S. Chamber Foundation to host a first-of-its-kind civics competition that encourages young Americans to develop their interest in American democracy, engage constructively in their communities, and build trust with their fellow citizens.
The National Civics Bee® will engage America’s 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students to flex their civics knowledge for a chance to earn recognition and cash prizes.
The top-performing Loudoun student will compete in the Virginia State Finals, where the winner will compete in the national championship in Washington, D.C. (Fall of 2025) for prizes up to $50,000.
The National Civics Bee® in Loudoun is being held with the support of The Morven Park Center for Civic Impact and the Loudoun School-Business Partnership Executive Council.
Essay contest: November 4, 2024 – January 11, 2025
Loudoun Civics Bee competition: March 5, 2025 @ Morven Park in Leesburg
Essay Contest Information
The continued prosperity and freedom that Loudoun and our entire nation enjoy rests on the civic knowledge and engagement of its citizens, especially our future leaders.
Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in Northern Virginia and celebrating our civic pride.
LOCAL PRIZES: First Place: $500; Second Place: $250; Third Place: $125
STATE PRIZES: First Place: $1,000; Second Place: $500; Third Place: $250
NATIONAL PRIZES: First Place: A trophy and at least $10,000; Second Place: A trophy and at least $7,500; Third Place: A trophy and at least $5,000
Essay Topic Questions: Write a 600-750 word essay that includes the following –
- IDENTIFY a specific problem, challenge, or opportunity in your community. What can you do to contribute to its improvement? (200 words minimum–250 words maximum)
- WHAT individuals or organizations would you work with to accomplish your solution? Examples include elected officials, business leaders, and nonprofits. (200 words minimum–250 words maximum)
- HOW does your solution include Founding Principles and Civic Virtues? (200 words minimum–250 words maximum)
Judging Criteria
Your essay will be evaluated based on how well you:
- Demonstrate an understanding of civics.
- Acknowledge opposing points of view.
- Address at least one Founding Principle and one Civic Virtue.
- Use primary sources, like newspapers and historical documents.
- Clearly describe an innovative idea.
Additional Information
Sponsorship Information
Interested in showcasing your company’s commitment to developing active and engaged citizens?
PRESIDENTIAL SPONSOR
Exclusive! One Available. Investment of $5,000
- Recognition in all newsletters and press releases related to the National Civics Bee.
- Logo recognition on promotional emails and social media posts related to the National Civics Bee in Loudoun.
- Logo recognition on a website dedicated to the National Civics Bee in Loudoun.
- Logo recognition displayed digitally at the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Speaking opportunity at the 2025 National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Two company representatives may serve as National Civics Bee Loudoun competition judges.
CONSTITUTIONAL SPONSORSInvestment of $2,500
- Recognition in all newsletters and press releases related to the National Civics Bee.
- Logo recognition on promotional emails and social media posts related to the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Logo recognition on a digital display at the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Logo recognition on a website dedicated to the National Civics Bee in Loudoun.
- One company representative may serve as a judge at the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
SENATE SPONSORS
Investment of $1,500
- Recognition in all newsletters and press releases related to the National Civics Bee.
- Name recognition on promotional emails and social media posts related to the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Name recognition on a Digital display at the National Civics Bee in Loudoun competition.
- Name recognition on a website dedicated to the National Civics Bee Loudoun.
- One company representative may serve as a judge at the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
BIPARTISAN SPONSOR
Investment of $1,000
- Name recognition on marketing materials promoting the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Recognition in all newsletters and press releases related to the National Civics Bee.
- Name recognition on promotional emails and social media posts related to the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Name recognition on a Digital display at the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Name recognition on a website dedicated to the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
CIVICS SUPPORTER
Investment of $500
- Name recognition on promotional emails related to the National Civics Bee Loudoun.
- Name recognition on a Digital display at the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
- Name recognition on a website dedicated to the National Civics Bee Loudoun competition.
Questions about this event or sponsorships? Contact Paige Romanow, Director of Events.