The Institute for Governance and Civics at Florida State University is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and chambers of commerce across Florida to host a nonpartisan statewide civics competition on May 31, 2025. The 2024-25 National Civics Bee® encourages young Americans in 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th grade to engage in civics and contribute to their communities.

The competition, modeled on traditional spelling and geography bees, gives students the chance to win recognition and earn cash prizes by sharing ideas for improving their communities and showing their enthusiasm for civics. The winner of the National Civics Bee® Florida State Finals will receive a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the National Civics Bee® national championship in Fall 2025.

We are hosting the National Civics Bee® Florida State Finals because we believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge throughout Florida and celebrating our civic pride.

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in Florida with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their essay to participate in one local competition in their state. The application will open in Fall of 2024, and essays must be submitted by February 4, 2025. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.

• Essay Guide
• National Civics Bee® Highlights Video
• National Civics Bee® Website
• Student Flyer

• Links coming soon! 

Date: May 31, 2025
Time: TBD
Location:
Augustus B. Turnbull III Florida State Conference Center
555 W. Pensacola Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32306-1640

• Local Bees:
  • First place: $500
  • Second place: $250
  • Third place: $125
• State Finals:
  • First place: $1,000
  • Second place: $500
  • Third place: $250
• National Finals:
  • First place: $100,000 (529 Plan)
  • Second place: $25,000
  • Third place: $15,000

Are you interested in showcasing your company's commitment to developing​ active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact Ryan Owens at ryan.owens@fsu.edu.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Ryan Owens at ryan.owens@fsu.edu.