The National Civics Bee in Gilbert, Arizona, brought together 18 bright middle school students from across the Phoenix Metro area to showcase their knowledge of civics, government, and community engagement. Hosted at Park University-Gilbert and presented by APS, the event provided an inspiring glimpse into the future of civic leadership. Dr. Shane McCord served as the emcee, guiding students through challenging rounds of questions before a panel of esteemed judges, including local educators, business leaders, and government representatives. Here are three major takeaways from this impactful event:
1. Youth Engagement in Civics is Thriving
The participation of students from various schools across the region highlighted a strong interest in civic education. The competition challenged students to demonstrate their understanding of the U.S. Constitution, government functions, and the role of active citizenship. The enthusiasm and preparation of the participants underscored the importance of fostering civic knowledge at an early age to develop informed and engaged future leaders.
2. Community Collaboration Elevates Civic Education
The success of the event was made possible through the collaboration of multiple stakeholders, including local businesses, educators, and civic organizations. In addition to presenting sponsor APS, other sponsors included the Town of Gilbert and First Things First. Judges such as Christina Sanchez, Nikki McCarty, Nikki Micale, Patrick Carlson, and Ashley Doering brought diverse perspectives to the competition. Their participation reinforced the message that civic engagement is a shared responsibility and that local organizations play a vital role in educating and empowering young minds.
3. Rising Leaders in Civics Shine Bright
The competition recognized outstanding students who excelled in demonstrating their civic knowledge and critical thinking skills. The winners included:
- First Place: Johnston Lau (Mountain Trail Middle School)
- Second Place: Shaurya Arora (BASIS Chandler)
- Third Place: Ben DeMeo (Mountain Trail Middle School)
Their achievements reflect the dedication and hard work of young scholars who are committed to civic learning. These students serve as an inspiration for their peers, proving that an understanding of government and active participation in community affairs can lead to meaningful contributions to society.
The National Civics Bee in Gilbert was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the next generation’s commitment to civic responsibility. Events like these continue to play a crucial role in shaping informed and engaged citizens, ensuring a bright future for communities across Arizona and beyond.
The winners will go on to compete in the state competition on May 2, 2025, further showcasing their knowledge and passion for civics on a larger stage.
