LMS 8th Graders Advance to National Civics Bee Competition
![National Civics Bee 2026]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1770040790/usd305com/pdwt0ahjkc7xecf6acoi/NationalCivicsBee.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1770040790/usd305com/pdwt0ahjkc7xecf6acoi/NationalCivicsBee.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1770040790/usd305com/pdwt0ahjkc7xecf6acoi/NationalCivicsBee.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1770040790/usd305com/pdwt0ahjkc7xecf6acoi/NationalCivicsBee.png","width":1080}])
Several LMS eighth-grade students earned recognition by having their essays selected for the National Civics Bee, an honor that highlights their strong civic knowledge, critical thinking, and commitment to understanding and improving their community.
Several eighth-grade students from Mrs. Crawford's History class at Lakewood Middle School are being recognized for their outstanding civic knowledge and writing after having their essays selected for the National Civics Bee competition.
The National Civics Bee is a nationwide program run by the US Chamber of Commerce that encourages middle school students to engage with civics, government, and community problem-solving. Students begin the competition by writing an essay that identifies a real issue in their community and proposes a thoughtful, realistic solution. Essays are evaluated on students’ understanding of civic principles, the strength of their ideas, and the clarity with which they communicate their thinking. Having an essay chosen is a significant accomplishment. It means that LMS students stood out among many peers for their ability to think critically about real-world problems, understand how local and national government works, and express their ideas effectively through writing.
Students whose essays were selected will move on to the next phase of the competition, where judges select finalists to advance to regional competitions to compete for trophies, prizes, and recognition. Regional competitions take place in-person between late March and late May. Three essays will be chosen from each region, and the students will participate in live events that test their knowledge of civics and government. As they advance, students gain opportunities to strengthen public speaking skills, collaborate with peers from other schools, and represent LMS at a high level. One finalist from each state receives a trip to the National Championship to compete for big prizes.
Participation in the National Civics Bee helps students understand that their voices matter. It reinforces the idea that informed citizens — even at a young age — can play an important role in shaping their communities and democracy. LMS is proud of these eighth-grade students for their hard work, thoughtful writing, and commitment to civic engagement. Their success reflects not only academic excellence but also a strong sense of responsibility as future citizens.