FOX CITIES – On Saturday, April 20, the Fox Cities Chamber hosted the 2024 National Civics Bee at Lawrence University in Appleton, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities.
Audrie B., Raluca M., and Brayden S. were named the top three finalists of the Chamber’s Civics Bee competition, organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
“It’s important to develop well-informed citizens, so we are excited to be part of an event where civic education starts in 6th grade,” said Aimee Herrick, Director of Events & Emerging Talent at the Fox Cities Chamber.
“In recent years, Americans’ civics knowledge has fallen significantly, with 53% not being able to name all three branches of government. At the same time, 79% of 8th graders score below proficient in civics,” said U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Representative Shelby Paradowski. “Through the National Civics Bee®, we aim to reverse this trend, and inspire a new generation of Americans to be civically engaged and active in shaping the future of our communities and our nation.”
Fourteen students took part in the local competition, which included a live quiz event and answered questions from judges to test their civic knowledge. Audrie B. took first place, followed by Raluca M. and Brayden S. for second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were Appleton Mayor Jake Woodford; Robyn Gruner, Director of External Affairs, AT&T; and Katie Van Zeeland, Alderperson – District 5, Appleton.
The first-winner received a $500 cash prize and will advance to the state competition along with the other two finalists. The state winners will receive various prizes, including $1,000 cash for the first-place student. The state competition will be held on Flag Day, Friday, June 14 in Madison.
