By Blake Jackson
This spring, Kentucky middle schoolers sprouted civic pride by participating in local National Civics Bee competitions. Partnering with the Kentucky Chamber Foundation, local chambers across the state hosted these events, testing students' knowledge of American democracy and their communities.
From Bardstown to Paducah, chambers like the Bardstown-Nelson County Chamber and the Paducah Area Chamber coordinated lively quizzes. Top finalists from each local competition, including students like Nate Andrews and Ava Bogard, will advance to the statewide finals.
The Kentucky Chamber Foundation will cultivate civic engagement further by hosting the 3rd Annual National Civics Bee Kentucky State Finals on August 22nd at the Kentucky State Fair. These finalists, much like the young farmers tending to Kentucky's bounty, will be sowing the seeds of a stronger democracy.
This year, each state champion will vie for the top prize at the first-ever National Civics Bee in Washington D.C. on November 12th. Here, Kentucky's champion will go head-to-head with students from across the country for a chance to win over $50,000 in prizes.
This National Civics Bee initiative, co-organized by The Civic Trust, aims to cultivate a generation of informed and engaged citizens. By encouraging students to understand democracy, participate in their communities, and build trust in institutions, the Bee hopes to plant the seeds of a more vibrant democracy.
“When we understand how democracy works, we can make it work better. We hope that the Civics Bee will broaden participation in our civic life and inspire Kentuckians to build on our shared commitment to our values, institutions, schools, economy, and the health of our community,” said Kentucky Chamber Foundation Senior Vice President Beth Davisson.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo
Categories: Kentucky, Education