Farmers Branch, Texas -- On Wednesday, April 8, hosted the 2026 National Civics Bee in Farmers Branch, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle schoolers that increases civic knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities.
“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. We’re proud to support a program that strengthens civic knowledge and skills for all young people and helps build the foundation for a stronger future.” said Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Students across the country submitted essays on issues in their communities, which were then reviewed by a distinguished panel of judges. Top students were selected to compete in the Metrocrest Area Chamber’s Regional Competition: an in-person, live event featuring two rounds of civics quiz questions followed by a Q&A in which students discussed their proposals for improving their communities.
Tanish P from Perry Middle School in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD took 1st place, Arjun O from Wilkinson Middle School in Frisco ISD, placed 2nd, and Christine A from Sunnyvale Middle School in Sunnyvale ISD, placed 3rd. The judges for this year’s competition were: Lou Celli from Envision Dallas, Gabe Madison from Metrocrest Services, and Dr. Madeline Burillo-Hopkins with Dallas College. The event was emceed by Phil Prazan, an award-winning reporter with NBC 5 DFW who focuses on policy, politics, and government.
The top three finalists impressed the judges with their thoughtful and well-researched essays, confident public speaking, and insightful responses to questions during the live competition. Each demonstrated a deep understanding of civic responsibility, poise under pressure, and a strong passion for making a difference in their communities.
“At the Metrocrest Area Chamber, we believe that our future depends on young leaders who understand the importance of civic engagement and community involvement,” said Michael Gallops, President and CEO of the Metrocrest Chamber of Commerce. “The National Civics Bee empowers students to think critically about real-world issues and take action. We are incredibly proud of all the participants and thrilled to celebrate the achievements of these outstanding middle school students.
The first-place winner received a $500 cash prize and will advance to the state competition hosted by the School of Civic Leadership at the University of Texas along with the other top finalists who received $250 and $125 respectively. The top state winners will receive various prizes, up to $1,000. The state’s first-place winner will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in the fall of 2026, where they can win a grand prize of a $100,000 contribution to a 529 plan. The second-place finalist will receive $25,000, and the third-place National finalist will receive $15,000.
The National Civics Bee Texas State Finals will be hosted by The School of Civic Leadership at the University of Texas on Saturday, June 6 from 12-4 PM at Crum Auditorium, McCombs School of Business in Austin.
For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee.
About Metrocrest Area Chamber
The Metrocrest Area Chamber serves the communities of Addison, Carrollton, and Farmers Branch, advocating for local businesses, creating connections, and driving economic growth across the region.
