RAPID CITY, S.D. – Eighteen regional finalists will gather in Rapid City to test their knowledge of American government during the local National Civics Bee competition on Saturday, April 18. The live, in-person event is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. at the Dahl Arts Center.

The competition features a rigorous format including two rounds of civics questions followed by a question and answer session. These finalists were selected after submitting essays earlier this year focused on identifying and solving issues within their local communities. A panel of judges reviewed the submissions to narrow the field to the top 18 middle school students.

The National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan initiative organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The program aims to increase civic knowledge and disposition among young Americans while encouraging them to contribute actively to their communities.

“Each year, the National Civics Bee reminds us how much promise and talent exists in communities across the country,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “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.”

Local finalists and top performers in the Rapid City event will receive more than $800 in prize money. Winners from this regional round will be invited to participate in the South Dakota state finals.

The stakes for the competition extend beyond the local level. The first-place winner of the state finals will receive a trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the national championship in the fall of 2026. National contestants will vie for prizes valued at a minimum of $50,000.

The event at the Dahl Arts Center, located at 713 7th St. in Rapid City, provides a platform for the community to support youth engagement in the democratic process. Elevate Rapid City serves as the local host for the competition.