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Sarasota Middle School Students Excel at National Civics Bee 2026, Advancing to State Finals

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The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce brought civic engagement to the forefront on April 11, 2026, hosting the regional round of the National Civics Bee, a growing national initiative designed to inspire middle school students to become informed, engaged citizens.

Organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition challenges students to explore real-world issues and propose meaningful solutions for their communities. Sarasota’s event highlighted just how thoughtful and innovative the next generation can be.

A Competition Focused on Real Community Issues

Students from across the region began by submitting essays tackling pressing local concerns, ranging from substance abuse awareness to transportation improvements and community gardening initiatives. A distinguished panel of judges reviewed the submissions and selected finalists to compete in the live regional event.

The competition featured two rounds of civics-based quiz questions followed by a question-and-answer session where students presented their ideas and defended their proposals.

Taking first place was Orion A. from Pine View School, followed by Tristan R. in second place and Adel P. in third. Judges included Tommy Gregory of the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, Mark Gordon of the Business Observer, and Darwin Tepe.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders

According to Hilary Crow, the Civics Bee continues to play a critical role in strengthening civic knowledge across the country.

“Each year, the National Civics Bee reminds us how much promise and talent exists in communities across the country. Students step up with thoughtful solutions, bold ideas, and a willingness to participate, exactly the qualities our democracy and workforce need,” Crow said.

Local leadership echoed that sentiment. Heather Kasten emphasized the importance of investing in youth and civic education. The Greater Sarasota Chamber has also stayed active in broader community leadership efforts, including recognition such as being named a finalist for National Chamber of the Year.

“This was more than a competition, it was a meaningful investment in the next generation of leaders. Watching these students think critically and present their ideas with confidence was truly inspiring,” Kasten said.

What’s Next: State and National Opportunities

The first-place winner received a $500 cash prize and will advance to the Florida State Finals hosted by the Florida State University Institute for Governance & Civics on June 30, 2026, at the Augustus B. Turnbull III Florida State Conference Center.

Top performers at the state level can advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C. in Fall 2026, where prizes include:

  • $100,000 contribution to a 529 education savings plan for first place
  • $25,000 for second place
  • $15,000 for third place

Why Civics Education Matters

Programs like the National Civics Bee are becoming increasingly important as communities and business leaders recognize the need for strong civic literacy. The competition not only builds knowledge of government and civic processes but also fosters leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

In Sarasota, the event served as a powerful reminder that young people are already thinking critically about the challenges facing their communities and are ready to help shape the future. That same investment in student growth can be seen in programs like Youth Leadership Sarasota scholarship recognition.

About the Sarasota Chamber

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to maximizing its members’ success, enhancing the community’s competitiveness, and strengthening the region’s economic vitality.

For more information, call 941-955-8187 or visit the Sarasota Chamber website.

About the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions that benefit communities across America and around the world. The organization focuses on anticipating challenges and developing innovative strategies to address them, both today and in the future.

About the National Civics Bee

The National Civics Bee is an annual, nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities.

The program elevates civics as a national priority through a network of local, regional, and state partners nationwide. It is made possible through the support of founding partner Daniels Fund, along with Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, and other contributors.

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