The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce is bringing the National Civics Bee back to Okaloosa County for the 2025-2026 program year, building on the success of its inaugural competition that saw a local student advance to the national finals.

• The Chamber, presented by Eglin Federal Credit Union, is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host the nonpartisan competition that invites middle school students to showcase their civics knowledge through a multi-round format. The initiative is expanding to all 50 states in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

“As the first chamber of commerce in Florida to register and host the National Civics Bee, everything about the planning process was new for both our chamber and our school system,” said Ted Corcoran, president and CEO of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce. “We were thrilled by the number of students who participated in our inaugural year, and even more inspired to grow.”

The competition begins with a written essay and culminates in live events at the regional, state and national levels. The Okaloosa County live competition will take place in April 2026 at Beachside Church in Fort Walton Beach.

Students in grades 6-8 can submit applications through an online portal that closes Feb. 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Finalists who advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C., will compete for cash prizes, national recognition and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution. 

• Thanks to support from the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school.

The Chamber’s decision to continue hosting the competition was reinforced by the performance of last year’s Okaloosa County winner, who became the Florida State Champion and competed in the National Finals in Washington, D.C.

“While we were already committed to continuing the Bee in year two, having our Okaloosa County winner go on to become the Florida State Champion, and then compete in the National Finals in Washington, D.C., truly sealed the deal,” Corcoran said. “This year, we’re eager to see even greater engagement from students, schools and sponsors as we continue to champion this incredible opportunity to celebrate civic knowledge and leadership among our youth.”

Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, said the competition aligns with broader efforts to strengthen civics education nationwide.

• “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity and responsibility to reignite civic learning across the country,” Crow said. “Our hope is that the National Civics Bee inspires more schools to prioritize civics education, equipping young people with a deeper understanding of how our government and democracy work, and the essential role they play in strengthening their communities and our nation.”

For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit here. Additional questions can be directed to rachellegraves@fwbchamber.org.