O'Fallon-Shiloh IL Chamber of Commerce Hosts National Civics Bee®
Middle school students will test their civics knowledge and compete for national title
O’Fallon, IL — The O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce, working with local educators, is excited to host our local competition of the 2025 National Civics Bee®, an event designed to inspire middle school students to engage in civics and become informed community members.
The journey to the competition began with 448 students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades from area schools submitting essays about a problem in their community and how they would address it. These essays were carefully reviewed, and the top 20 students were selected as finalists. Now, these talented students will put their knowledge to the test in a live quiz event, showcasing their understanding of government, history, and civic engagement.
The finalists represent three area schools:
- Edward Fulton Junior High
- Amelia Carriel Junior High
- Shiloh Middle School
The National Civics Bee is more than just a competition—it’s an opportunity to encourage young leaders to engage in their communities and understand the impact of civic participation. We encourage the community to join us in cheering on these students as they take the stage and demonstrate their civic knowledge!
“We’re thrilled to host the National Civics Bee® and inspire middle schoolers to see the impact they can have in their community. This competition isn’t just about civics—it’s about empowering students to recognize their role in shaping the future,” says O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Debbie Arell-Martinez.
“Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. The National Civics Bee® provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.
For more information on entering the National Civics Bee® in Illinois, visit: National Civics Bee – O'Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce or nationalcivicsbee.org.
For additional information, please contact Debbie Arell-Martinez, director@ofallonchamber.com.
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About National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee®, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s The Civic Trust®, is an annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee® helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state and local chambers across the country. The National Civics Bee® is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.
