SANDPOINT — When most think about high school competition, athletics comes to mind, but for the first time, students across Idaho will get a chance to compete in a battle of civics.

The National Civics Bee will be hosting its Idaho competition in Idaho Falls this year, featuring 20 of the brightest young minds in the state. Any Bonner County student in sixth, seventh or eighth grade is eligible to apply for the chance to compete with peers from across the state for $1,000 and a chance to compete on the national stage. 

“We are always looking for opportunities to connect learning with fun,” Andrea Dearden, chief communications director for the Idaho Department of Education, said. “We are very supportive of the event and our students participating.” 

To apply, students will be tasked with writing a brief four-paragraph essay, in which they identify a community issue and describe the solution they think will fix it. Students will not only have to find steps but bring them into the real world and connect the ideas to the values that shaped the United States of America like equality, private property and the rule of law. 

Superintendent of Public Instruction, Debbie Critchfield said competitions about civics are crucial for the next generation and even more important as the country celebrates its 250th anniversary next year.  

“These students are our future. We hope these students grow into informed voters, good neighbors and citizens,” Dearden said. “Learning these skills now, helps these students now and in the future.” 

Once submitted, judges from the National Civics Bee will select the 20 students from across Idaho to participate in the live quiz competition in Idaho Falls. Critchfield said the winning student will also earn a $5,000 donation made to their school and a paid trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the national competition. 

The national prize for a student includes a $100,000 donation to the student’s 529 college savings plan, Critchfield said.  

“Prioritizing civics in schools, communities and the minds of young people helps ensure the next generation has the knowledge and confidence to participate, lead and build a bright future for Idaho and our nation,” Critchfield said. 

Essays for the students are due Feb. 3, 2026, and can be submitted at nationalcivicsbee.org or mailed to their address in Washington, D.C. More information on the essay can be found at civics.uschamberfoundation.org/student-essay-guide. 

Finalists will be selected and notified by March 8, 2026. The Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce has more information on the statewide event on its website at idahofallschamber.com/national-civics-bee-Idaho.