12/19/2025
Facebook Exclusive Article, By Laura McClure:
In Queen Creek, community isn’t just a word—it’s a way of life. From neighbors helping neighbors to families gathering at town events, the spirit of connection runs deep. This spring, that same spirit will take center stage as Queen Creek middle schoolers step into the spotlight for the National Civics Bee®, an inspiring competition hosted locally by the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
At its core, the Civics Bee is about more than memorizing facts. The U.S. Chamber Foundation defines civics as “the knowledge, skills, and disposition every person needs to exercise their rights and fulfill their responsibilities in our democracy.” That definition comes alive every day in small but powerful ways—when someone volunteers at a food drive, casts a ballot, serves on a jury, starts a business, or simply shares their experiences to make the community stronger. The Bee challenges young people to think about those roles and ask themselves: How can I make a difference right here, right now?
For Arizona’s 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, the journey begins with an essay. Students are invited to identify an opportunity, problem, or challenge in their community and propose a solution that connects to a Founding Principle of our democracy or demonstrates a Civic Virtue such as responsibility, respect, or courage. In Queen Creek, that might look like an essay focused on the Founding Principle of liberty, suggesting ways to give students more opportunities to express their voices in school decisions. Or it could highlight the Civic Virtue of responsibility, with a student proposing new community clean-up projects in our parks and trails. These essays are more than assignments—they’re personal blueprints for creating change.
From these submissions, finalists will be chosen to compete in Queen Creek’s local competition. Picture a stage filled with young voices—students proudly answering civics questions before a cheering audience of friends, families, and neighbors. Winners will earn recognition and cash prizes, but the stakes rise even higher: finalists will advance to the national stage in Washington, D.C., where they’ll represent Arizona in the Fall 2026 National Civics Bee® Championship.
For Queen Creek, hosting the Bee feels like a natural fit. Chamber President and CEO Katie Stringer reflects on why it matters: “Our town thrives when people get involved, whether that’s volunteering at schools, serving on committees, or starting projects that make life better for everyone. The Civics Bee is an opportunity to pass that tradition of engagement to the next generation. These students aren’t just learning civics—they’re living it.”
Indeed, Queen Creek has always celebrated the contributions of its young people. From student-led food drives supporting local charities to church groups organizing service projects, our community understands that leadership starts early. The National Civics Bee® builds on that foundation, giving students the tools and confidence to see themselves as changemakers—today and in the future.
The deadline to submit essays is Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Families and students can learn more, access essay resources, and review full guidelines at www.nationalcivicsbee.org. Local details are also available at qcstudentchamber.com/national-civics-bee, and the complete Student Essay Guide can be found at queencreekchamber.com.
As the Bee unfolds, Queen Creek will have the privilege of watching its students step forward with ideas grounded in civic virtues and America’s Founding Principles. Their voices remind us of what democracy is truly about: working together, honoring shared values, and building stronger communities for generations to come.
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