By The Waterbury Times|Published Jan 24, 2026

Update Apr 1, 2026 7:21

WATERBURY, CT — Middle school students from Waterbury Public Schools and surrounding communities are being encouraged to apply for the 2026 National Civics Bee, a nationwide civics competition that offers students the chance to earn up to $100,000 in education savings contributions.

The Waterbury Regional Chamber, in partnership with The Civic Trust and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, will host the regional competition right here in Waterbury on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Veterans Hall inside Waterbury City Hall.

Students who advance to the regional round will compete for local cash prizes:

• $500 for first place
• $250 for second place
• $125 for third place

Top finishers will also earn the opportunity to represent Waterbury and Greater Connecticut at the National Civics Bee Championship, competing against students from across the country for major education awards.

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The competition is open to 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students from Waterbury and towns throughout Connecticut.
The application deadline is February 3, 2026.

Parents, guardians, and educators are encouraged to help students apply.

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What Is Civics?

Civics is the study of how government works and how citizens participate in it.
At its core, civics teaches:

• How laws are made
• The rights and responsibilities of citizens
• How local, state, and federal government function
• How individuals can contribute to their community and democracy

Good civics knowledge helps students understand:

• Why voting matters
• How public policy affects everyday life
• How to engage constructively in civic issues

In short, civics helps young people become informed, active participants in their communities and the broader democratic process.