2023-2024 National Civics Bee Playbook - State Partners by National Civics Bee

Playbook

for State Competition Partners 2023–2024 Go to FAQs

Email: civictrust@uschamber.com

Welcome! Carolyn Cawley

President U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

Welcome to the National Civics Bee. I am delighted to welcome you as a partner in this ambitious effort to build a deeper understanding of what makes America exceptional. We believe in the power of the private sector to solve our most challenging problems. We recognize the importance of democracy to national prosperity and know that business has a role in strengthening it. We’re on a mission to increase civic literacy because we believe all young people, no matter what job they dream of doing, should understand how democracy works and how to be active and engaged citizens. This Playbook is a step-by-step guide for getting your competition up and running—from preparing to launch through post-event reporting. You will find timelines, checklists, and links to all the tools and templates you will need along the way. We hope you’ll find this resource helpful. The National Civics Bee will help elevate civics as a national priority while strengthening our democracy, economy, and workforce. Thank you for joining us in this critical movement.

2 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Welcome!

How to Use This Playbook This Playbook is organized by chapters that relate to each step in the competition process. Each of these 6 steps has its own checklist. These checklists, worksheets, and appendix items found within, can be filled, saved, and printed from any device. Your PDF reader also provides options to Search (or CTRL-F) and to add sticky notes.

THE NAV BAR The nav bar appears at the top right of each page and provides clickable access to these areas of the Playbook:

TIMELINE

FAQS

INDEX

CONTACT

This button links to the Timeline page, a Table of Contents that links each step in the Bee to its related chapter.

This button links to the FAQs section, with answers to common questions organized by chapter.

This button links to the Index page, with a clickable list of every page featured in the Playbook.

This button opens a new window with Contact information for requesting National Civics Bee support.

National Civics Bee in Colorado

3 • National Civics Bee Playbook

How to Use This Playbook

Contest Timeline National Civics Bee in Kentucky

The National Civics Bee requires advance planning, implementation, and reporting. Review the Competition Plan (pg. 18) for time requirements, or use the clickable list below to select a chapter.

2023 Aug–Oct Nov 1

Prep for Launch

Engage Students

Recruit Partners

Plan State Event

Hold State Event

Report Results

4 • National Civics Bee Playbook

2024 Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May–Jul

Contest Timeline

Contest Overview SUBMISSION PHASE

Prep for Launch

EVENT PHASE

4 Plan State Event

Aug–Oct 2023

Jan–June 2024

Review contest guidelines, establish teams and plans, launch related web pages, and begin measuring results.

Identify and recruit Event Judges and Emcee, secure and prepare a venue, confirm State Finalists, and review related guides for the live Quiz.

Engage Students

Hold State Event

Aug–Dec 2023

May–July 2024

Assist Local Competition Partners with student engagement by conducting outreach through schools, schools boards, Board of Education, youth organizations, and more.

Host Local Winners and other participants, administer a live Quiz, and award 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes.

Recruit Partners

Report Results

Aug 2023–Jan 2024

Ongoing Throughout Timeline

Review related guides, then recruit supporting businesses, media partners, and government officials.

Record and track goals and progress. Collect and track media assets, results, and feedback throughout the contest, share information on state champion with USCCF, and complete the post-event survey for final reporting.

5 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Contest Overview

Frequently Asked Questions Q

What personal information is collected from students who enter the Bee?

The competition entry form requires students to share their fist name, last name, school name, grade, ZIP code, and the email address or phone number of a parent or guardian. This information is not shared with judges or sponsors.

What if a student reaches out directly with questions or concerns?

Student privacy laws restrict communication directly with minors, unless a parent has provided permission. If a student reaches out directly over email, the State Competition Partner may communicate one time to ask that a parent or guardian reply.

What if a school says they cannot participate because of privacy laws?

Schools may cite laws such as FERPA or COPPA to say that they cannot require or facilitate students entering any online competition. In this case, schools may still promote the Bee and encourage students to enter when they are at home or at a local library.

What about students who lack civics education or computer access?

The Student and Parent Guide provides an overview of civic concepts and supports the essay-writing process with a graphic organizer worksheet. Students can print and mail their essays, as long as they are received by the competition deadline.

6 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions Q

What if a local business partner asks for participant contact information?

Lists of student and parent information cannot be shared with outside parties. Any use of personally identifiable information (i.e., name, email address, phone number, mailing address) must comply with the Privacy Policy posted on the competition website.

What if local media or government officials as if the Bee is nonpartisan?

The National Civics Bee spans political ideologies by inspiring middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions.

What if we receive hundreds of essays? How will they all be judged?

It is common to receive 25% or more of the total essays within 72 hours of the deadline. If your total is on track to exceed 100, either a) recruit and onboard more Essay Judges or b) confirm that your recruited judges can devote additional hours.

Can an Essay Judge also serve as a Local or State Event Judge?

Yes. An Essay Judge can also serve as a Local or State Event Emcee, Judge, or Speaker. Each assignment requires a specific Commitment Letter. Team members with access to students’ personal information cannot serve as Essay Judges.

7 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions Q

What if an essay indicates a student is in danger or may endanger others?

Each Local Competition Partner must follow state and local guidelines for evaluating information that may be related to child endangerment. All information should be kept confidential except as required for the administration of the competition.

What resources are available for Spanish-speaking parents and families?

The following supporting documents are available in both English and Spanish: Contest Rules, Parent Outreach Letter, Local Press Release, and State Press Release. Per the Official Contest Rules, all student essays must be submitted in English.

What if a judge asks for printed versions of the essays they are assigned?

Essay Judges must use the online Judging Portal (Reviewr) to complete their assignments. The Judging Portal provides access to the essays they are assigned, asks for scores matched to an evaluation rubric, and gives the option to recuse or flag an essay.

What if a judge recuses themselves based on a conflict of interest?

Names are hidden from essay judges, but sometimes students provide personally identifiable information in their essay. Judges should be encouraged to recuse if they see a conflict. The Judging Portal gives the option to reassign essays.

8 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions Q

What if a student from out of state is a potential Local Finalist?

Only students who reside within your state may be a Local Finalist. If a Local Finalist is found to be ineligible for any reason stated in the Contest Rules, they are disqualified. Notify the students’ parents, select an alternate Local Finalist, and inform USCCF.

What if a parent doesn’t submit a publicity release form or the intake form?

Publicity forms are only required for live-streamed events. If a parent refuses to sign, you must inform members of the media that they do not have permission to film or photograph that Local Finalist. Finalist intake forms are encouraged but they are not required.

What if an Event Judge recognizes one or more Finalists?

Event Judges should be recused from evaluating Finalists they recognize, however all Round 3 Finalists must benefit from an equal number of follow-up questions and judge evaluations. Prior to the event, prepare alternate judges as backup.

How many speakers can we invite to the event?

The Sample Event Agenda focuses on students sharing their ideas, taking the quiz, and engaging with community members, with a very limited number of guest speakers. Speakers should keep their comments brief, nonpartisan, and student-friendly.

9 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions Q

Can we change the number or content of the quiz questions?

To ensure fairness across all events, Local and State Competition Partners are not permitted to alter quiz content or format in any way. Quiz questions must be kept secret prior to the event, and audience members should be reminded not to call out answers.

Can we solicit additional prizes from local sponsors?

Local and State Competition Partners may choose to increase the minimum cash prizes via other funding. Information on additional prizes or prize money must be shared publicly by updating the Contest Rules, website, and ﬂyer.

What if a sponsor asks for a mailing list of participants?

Participants’ personal information may not be shared with anyone, and sponsored prizes cannot depend on receiving personal information. Prize information can be emailed to participants via the Competition Portal (Reviewr); contact USCCF for further guidance.

What if the Internet doesn’t work on the day of the event?

The USCCF team will provide a Back-Up Quiz Package that should be used in the event of Wi-Fi failure or other technological issues. Printing instructions are included in the package.

10 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions Q

What is the process for connecting Local Winners with the State Event?

Local Winners should be identified in the Competition Portal (Reviewr). Reviewr will then share Local Winner information on the relevant State Competition Partner’s dashboard. Local Winners will receive State Event details via email.

What if a Local Finalist declines their invitation to the State Event?

The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Local Winners from the Local Event are invited to be State Participants. If a Local Winner declines their invitation to the State Event, the 4th place Local Finalist from the Local Event will be invited (and so on, until three State Participants are confirmed).

What should we report if we did not reach our outreach goals?

Honest reporting and feedback are critical to the future success of the National Civics Bee. Share as much information as possible on what worked and what didn’t work, and what you believe would improve local engagement.

11 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Frequently Asked Questions

Checklist 1: Prep for Launch

Chapter 1

Prep for Launch August–October 2023

National Civics Bee in Albuquerque, NM, 2022

Review the National Civics Bee Primer (pg. 13) and study the Contest Rules.

Review the National Civics Bee policies including the Code of Conduct (pg. 15) and Social Media Guidelines.

Review Roles and Responsibilities (pg. 16) and make team assignments.

Develop a Competition Plan (pg. 18) that includes a timeline for key milestones. Launch Web Pages (pg. 19) that promote the Bee and link to the Competition Portal (Reviewr). Begin Reporting Results (pg. 20) and saving assets for use in your final report.

HERE’S A TIP: Anytime you see a pencil, you can use the page to digitally mark off your checklist

12 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

National Civics Bee Primer The National Civics Bee (the Bee) is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating middle school students flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. The Bee is co-sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF) and participating chambers of commerce. Students begin by entering a local essay competition. Judges from their community select 20 Local Finalists to participate in a local quiz event testing civics knowledge. The top 3 winners from each local competition advance to their state’s live event, where they compete for first, second, and third place prizes. The first-place winner from each state will advance to a national competition hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Winner of the 2022 State Finals in Maryland

WHY CIVICS? We believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. The National Civics Bee is a way to promote greater civics knowledge and civic participation across the country, and to energize our community with a celebration of civic pride.

13 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

Contest Rules Introduction The National Civics Bee Official Contest Rules govern the competition to ensure fairness and integrity. They are customized to include the name, address, and end date (including time zone) of each local chamber partner. Otherwise, the Contest Rules must not be modified in any way. As you review the Official Contest Rules in their entirety, please note the following eligibility requirements: • Any student registered in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade in a public, private, or home school is eligible to participate • Students may only apply to one competition, and it must be in their state of residence • All entries must be in English • If a student participated in a previous National Civics Bee, they must submit a new, unique entry • Any student related to (or living with) Chamber staff, leadership, Board of Directors, or any student who is related to any partners/co-sponsors of the National Civics Bee is not eligible (to prevent any perception of bias, preferentialism, or discrimination)

14 • National Civics Bee Playbook

In addition, please note the following requirements related to documentation and data storage: • Parents/Guardians of the selected Local Finalists must submit an eligibility validation and consent form for their child to participate • Taxpayer ID is not required to participate in the Bee, but it is required to receive the cash prizes (and any other prizes where the parent/guardian might be responsible to pay taxes) • If a parent asks for their child’s data to be removed or deleted, they must contact civictrust@uschamber.com and the Local Competition Partner must inform USCCF Refer to the following Official Contest Rules for all requirements.

DID YOU KNOW? Local and State Competition Partners are responsible for ensuring that Contest Rules are followed within their jurisdiction.

Prep for Launch

Code of Conduct As co-sponsors of the National Civics Bee, all partners are expected to set an example of good citizenship throughout every stage of the competition. Chamber teams as well as Essay Judges, Event Judges, and Event Speakers should consistently observe the following goals: 1. Ensure students from a variety of backgrounds have a safe, welcoming, and rewarding experience. • Engage and encourage all students to participate, support their efforts throughout the competition, and answer any questions they have • Keep student and parent information confidential and discard all personally identifiable records after they are no longer needed for the competition • Include their parent or guardian when communicating with a student and collect all required consent forms

2. Guarantee a fair competition by honoring the rules, guidelines, and policies of the National Civics Bee. • Refer to this Playbook to guide planning and implementation • Maintain your website and other communications channels with clear, up-to-date information • Provide transparent, accurate reporting of competition results, and discuss any questions with USCCF 3. Model nonpartisan civic principles, such as respecting the diversity of political opinions. • Conduct an unbiased review of student entries, avoiding judgment based on a student’s name, address, background, or point of view • Recruit Essay Judges, Event Judges, and Event Speakers who will uphold nonpartisan civic principles • Provide opportunities for students and local leaders to celebrate civic participation in their communities

HERE’S A TIP: Attach this Code of Conduct to Commitment Letters for Essay Judges, Event Emcee, and Event Judges.

15 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

Roles and Responsibilities The National Civics Bee is implemented by partners and teams at the national, state and local levels. The chart below provides an overview of roles and responsibilities for each of those teams.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

State Competition Partners

Provides overall National Civics Bee direction, policies, and support

Provides National Civics Bee leadership at the State level

Organizes check-ins with Local and State Competition Partners

Coordinates with Local Competition Partners to plan the State Event

Provides Playbook and other Bee materials

Supports student recruitment for Local Bees

Provides support for the Competition Portal

Provides support to Local Winners and their families

Approves Emcees and Speakers for Local and State Events

Recruits State Event Judges, Emcee and Speakers

Provides support and content for the Quiz Portal

Plans and hosts State Event with live Quiz

Supports partnerships and marketing efforts

Recruits partners and sponsors for State Event

Ensures Contest Rules and Policies are followed

Tracks and reports on results nationwide

Tracks and reports on State outcomes

16 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

Roles and Responsibilities State Competition Partners We recommend that you consider the following roles for National Civics Bee team members: Events Manager Manages planning for State Event including venue, A/V and other vendors, and event signage. Engagement Manager Supports student recruitment for Local Bees. Recruits partners and sponsors for the State Event; manages event invitations. Judges/Student Manager Recruits Judges for State Event; hosts briefing and debriefing calls; works with Local Winners for State Event prep.

17 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

Competition Plan Successful planning and implementation for the National Civics Bee requires coordination between Local Competition Partners, State Competition Partners, and USCCF. The USCCF team will provide opportunities for regular check-in meetings. Your Competition Plan should define your team (see Roles and Responsibilities (pg. 16)) and establish a timeline. Use the chart below to fill in key milestone dates to discuss with your local, state, and national partners. Milestone

Date

Requirements

Essay Portal Opens

November 13, 2023

All Local Competition Partners open for submissions on this day

Essay Submission Deadline

January 8, 2024

Students have 6 weeks to submit essays before the window closes

Essay Judging

Begins January 9, 2024

Essay judges have 1 week to score essays

Ends January 16, 2024 Local Finalists Notified

January 17, 2024

Local Finalists are notified as soon as the top 20 are verified

Local Finalists Confirmed

January 31, 2024

Finalists require 10 days to confirm participation in the Local Event

Local Event Held

Local Event is 3 or more weeks after Finalist confirmation (Feb. 20–April 30)

Info on Local Winners Shared with State Partner

State Partners receive winner forms within 3 days after the Local competition

State Event Held

May 1, 2024– August 31, 2024

Complete Final Survey/Reporting

Info on State Winners Shared with U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Send State Competition Winner info to USCCF within 3 business days after State Competition. Submit final survey within 10 business days after State Competition.

In the event that there are technical difficulties, use the paper Back-Up Quiz.

18 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

Web Pages The National Civics Bee is promoted, entered, managed, and celebrated via web pages. Some of these web pages are created and hosted by Local and State Competition Partners, while others are hosted on the Competition Portal (Reviewr). The launch of these web pages opens the competition. LOCALLY HOSTED WEB PAGES Each State and Local Competition Partner hosts a National Civics Bee landing page on their chamber website. This page introduces the Bee, explains how to enter the competition, lists prizes, provides contact information, and recognizes sponsors. It should be linked prominently from the chamber website’s homepage and promoted via marketing channels.

1. The first goal is to encourage students to submit an essay before the deadline. State Competition Partners link to the Privacy Policy, and details about the State Event and National Event. 2. After the Event, the landing page shares winner results and highlights. State Competition Partners provide highlights from the Bee Events in their state, each linked to its relevant landing page, and highlights from the culminating State Event. COMPETITION PORTAL WEB PAGES Each Local and State Competition Partner receives access to the Competition Portal (Reviewr), where the submission entry forms are hosted. Local Competition Partners will share Local Finalist details with State Partners through the Portal.

HERE’S A TIP: Refer to the Landing Page Template, Competition Portal Guide, Brand Guide, and Marketing Toolkit for additional guidance.

19 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

Reporting Results Tracking and reporting results are key to the success of the National Civics Bee. Local and State Competition Partners are responsible for several different types of reporting, from the first day of planning to delivery of their final survey.

What

Why

How

Record and track outreach goals

Effectively manage team priorities

• •

Maintain a spreadsheet of goals Track partnership contacts/status

Document decisions and commitments

Facilitate support from the USCCF team

• •

Post Event details to Reviewr Save Commitment Letters

Collect and store related assets

Contribute to Local, State, and National highlights and reports

• •

Maintain a folder of media clips Save Event Judging scorecards

Share input and feedback

Inform Bee strategies for 2024 and beyond

• •

Complete surveys from USCCF Participate in regular check-ins

FINAL SURVEY Within 10 days after the State Competition, each State Competition Partner must complete and submit a final survey that includes questions about accomplishments, media hits, lessons learned, and more. Refer to your grant agreement for more details. National Civics Bee in Colorado, 2023

20 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

Checklist 2: Engage Students

Chapter 2

Engage Students August–December 2023

National Civics Bee in Brownsville, TX, 2022

Develop a Student Engagement Plan (pg. 22) that includes outreach goals.

Use the School Outreach Guide to engage educational leaders.

Use the Youth Group Outreach Guide to engage after-school providers.

Use the Library Outreach Guide to engage community librarians.

Share the Student Flyer, Educator Letter, and Parent Letter.

Begin Reporting Results (pg. 20) and tracking progress on your outreach goals.

21 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Engage Students

Student Engagement Plan Help Local Competition Partners in your state with student recruitment. Reach out to schools, teachers, school boards, Board of Education, local youth organizations, and more. It is important to engage schools before or at the beginning of the school year. The goal is for each Local Bee to collect at least 100 student submissions. Your Student Engagement Plan should define your outreach goals and identify responsible team members for achieving those goals. Use the chart below to begin your plan.

Target

Ask

School Boards, Department of Education, other school groups

• Help promote the Bee and push materials out to schools and teachers

Schools

• Share flyers with teachers and students • Make In-School Announcement • Send email to Parents

Youth Groups

• Post and/or email out flyers • Combine with Current Activities • Provide Student Support

Libraries

• Post Student Flyer • Print and Share Parent Letter

Goal

Team Lead

For each of the goals listed above, create a spreadsheet to track contact information, responses and status updates. The guides linked on the previous page provide suggestions for specific outreach strategies. In preparation for your conversations with outreach partners, review the FAQs. Before posting marketing messages, review the Social Media Guidelines.

IMPORTANT! Recruit a diverse set of students. This ensures that the submitted essays represent a variety of voices and viewpoints.

22 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Engage Students

Checklist 3: Recruit Partners

Chapter 3

Recruit Partners August 2023–January 2024

National Civis Bee in Mason City, IA, 2022

Develop a Partner Recruitment Plan (pg. 24) that includes outreach goals.

Use the Business Outreach Guide to engage business leaders.

Use the Media Outreach Guide to engage media providers.

Use the Government Outreach Guide to engage government officials.

Share the Student Flyer, Educator Letter, and Parent Letter.

Begin Reporting Results (pg. 20) and tracking progress on your outreach goals.

23 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Recruit Partners

Partner Recruitment Plan The National Civics Bee aims to increase civic knowledge and civic participation by connecting students, their families, and community leaders. The Partner Recruitment Plan should define your outreach goals for business leaders, media outlets, and government officials, and identify responsible team members for achieving those goals. Each competition should attract diverse members of the community. Use the chart below to begin your plan for developing valuable partnerships.

Target

Ask

Goal

Team Lead

• Sponsor the Event Businesses

• Sponsor Additional Prizes • Serve as Judges and Speakers • Promote the Bee

Media

• Report on Finalists and Winners

Government

• Promote the Bee • Serve as Judges and Speakers

For each of the goals listed above, create a spreadsheet to track contact information, responses, and status updates. The guides linked on the previous page provide suggestions for specific outreach strategies. In preparation for your conversations with business leaders, media outlets, and government ofﬁcials, review the FAQs.

IMPORTANT! Recruit a diverse set of partners. Remember that all participants should be nonpartisan and represents a variety of voices and viewpoints.

24 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Recruit Partners

Checklist 4: Plan State Event

Chapter 4x

Plan State Event Nov–Dec 2022 2024 January–June

National Civics Bee in Erie, PA

Review and confirm the State Event Venue Plan (pg. 26).

Use the Event Judge Outreach Guide to engage potential judges for the State Event. Use the Emcee Outreach Guide to engage potential emcees and speakers for the State Event. Use the Audience Outreach Guide to engage families and other community members invited to the State Event.

Create a State Event Program using the State Event Agenda (pg. 27).

Review the State Quiz Competition Overview (pg. 28)

Upload State Event details to the Competition Portal (Reviewr).

25 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Plan State Event

State Event Venue Plan National Civics Bee Events can take place in a variety of venues where students and community members feel welcome. State Events should support seating for at least 200 attendees, A/V capabilities for the quiz portion, and space for 20 Local Finalists.

Capacity

Audio/Visual/Tech

Staging

• The State Event venue should accommodate seats for at least 200 attendees

• The screen should be large enough for the audience to read quiz questions, with a sound system for video

• The venue should be set up for 20 Local Finalists to appear together in front of the audience

• An area should be designated for Finalists and their families to gather for pre-Event preparations

• The venue should have cell phone reception and Wi-Fi to support audience quiz participation

• USCCF will provide winner trophies and print-ready files or creative elements (banners, checks, signage, etc.)

Target date for full technical rehearsal at the Event venue:

State Competition Partners must supply 20 Wi-Fi enabled tablets for Local Finalists to take the quiz and a laptop for administering the quiz. Tablets must be charged, with a web browser logged into the Quiz Platform, prior to the Event. Each tablet should be clearly labeled with a Local Finalist’s fist name and logged in to that same Local Finalist’s quiz account. An additional backup tablet and laptop are recommended.

IMPORTANT! The state Contest Rules page, Landing Page, and Student Flyer must include up-to-date information about all prizes and prize money.

26 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Plan State Event

State Event Agenda Segment

Timing

Speaker

Video (optional)

1-2 minutes

Short video to introduce the event; create energy/ excitement

Opening Remarks

3 minutes

Chamber CEO/Event Emcee

Introductions

3 minutes

Chamber CEO/Event Emcee

Guest Remarks

5 minutes

Short guest remarks (live or pre-recorded video) from celebrity/business leader/legislator on why this is important and to wish the participants good luck.

Round 1

15 minutes

• 10 quiz questions moderated by Emcee • Include pre-recorded questions from celebrity/ business leader/legislator (optional)

Round 2

15 minutes

• 10 quiz questions moderated by Emcee • Include pre-recorded questions from celebrity/ business leader/legislator (optional) • Emcee announces top 5 students on the leaderboard who will advance to the final round

Guest Remarks

3 minutes

Opportunity for brief remarks while judges prepare for the final round with the top 5 State Finalists.

Round 3

45 minutes

• Each of the 5 State Finalists delivers a 3-minute pitch of their original essay. • Event Judges lead Q&A following each pitch. • Judges deliberate, tabulate scores, and share results with Emcee. • Emcee announces 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place State Winners. • Trophies and oversized checks are presented.

Closing Remarks

3 minutes

Chamber CEO

The audience will play along with the quiz throughout the two rounds of questions.

27 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Plan State Event

State Quiz Competition Overview During the State Event, the 3 Local Winners from each one of that state’s Local Events compete by answering 3 rounds of civics-based questions. In Rounds 1 and 2, all students answer the same multiple choice questions (10 questions in each round) and earn 1 point for each correct answer. Each State Competition Partner will receive access to a unique set of quiz questions, via a Quiz Platform. The Quiz Platform automatically tracks the time to answer and the scores during the Event. Partners provide tablet devices for State Participants to enter their answers. Audience members may also be invited to participate by submitting answers via their mobile devices. The 5 State Participants with the highest scores at the end of Round 2 will advance to Round 3. Round 2 ties are resolved by the tied students answering additional quiz questions. During Round 3, students share 3-minute pitches of the ideas they shared in their essays. A panel of State Event Judges will ask each student follow-up questions and evaluate their answers using the State Event Judging Rubric. Scores from Round 3 are added to scores from Rounds 1 and 2.

Please note the following suggestions for supporting State Finalists: • Provide the Study Guide and give students the opportunity to prepare notes that they can use at the State Event. Emphasize that the State Event requires a pitch, rather than the 3-sentence summary required for the Local Event. • Schedule a briefing prior to the State Event to provide introductions, review the program, describe the State Event Judging Rubric, demonstrate the Quiz Platform, and answer questions. • Designate a time and space for students to test their devices and Quiz Platform log-ins before the State Event begins. • Provide a Student Engagement Manager or other point-of-contact to answer questions from parents and family members before, during, and after the State Event. • To ensure student privacy, include only fist name and last initial on name tags.

The students with the highest cumulative score are the First, Second, and Third Place State Winners. If a tie-breaker is needed in Round 3, Event Judges will rank the 5 students in order (majority rules).

DID YOU KNOW? Local and State Competition Chamber Partners are responsible for ensuring that Contest Rules are followed within their jurisdiction.

28 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Plan State Event

Checklist 5: Hold State Event

Chapter 5x

Hold State Event Nov–Dec 2022 May–July 2024

National Civics Bee in Maryland, 2022

Review the State Quiz Competition Overview (pg. 28), provide support to Local Winners. Review Quiz Platform Guide. Use the State Event Guide (pg. 30) to help prepare staff for onsite support. Conduct a briefing call and use the Emcee Support Guide to prepare the Event Emcee. Conduct a briefing call and use the Event Judge Support Guide (pg. 31) to prepare the Event Judges. Conduct a rehearsal and host the State Event; provide the Winners Letter: State and W9 form to parents and guardians. Upload State Event outcomes to the Competition Portal (Reviewr).

HERE’S A TIP: Review the Quiz Platform Guide and Demo Video before conducting your rehearsal.

29 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Hold State Event

State Event Guide Segment

What to include in the script

Video (optional) Opening Remarks

Give instructions on how the audience can log in to participate in the quiz.

Introductions

Introduce each Finalist with first name and school, or ask them each in turn to introduce themselves.

Guest Remarks

Emcee and Finalists prepare for the opening of Round 1; confirm all devices are connected.

Round 1

• Explain that there are 2 rounds of 10 multiple choice questions and the top 5 scores at the end of Round 2 will advance to Round 3. The Quiz has a time limit for each answer; awards +1 for each correct answer (no penalty for wrong answers).

Round 2

• Check that all devices are working and Participants are ready to begin before each round. • Provide running commentary on leaderboard scores and note audience participation. At the end of Round 2, lead a tie-breaking process (if necessary) and announce Round 3 State Finalists.

Guest Remarks

• Event Judges prepare their notes and scoring forms for the top 5 State Finalists. • The top 5 State Finalists are given their notecards for Round 3.

Round 3

• Explain the process and rules for Round 3, including time limits and Event Judge roles. • Support tabulation of scores and confirm 1st, 2nd, 3rd place Winners while checks and trophies are prepared to be handed out.

Closing Remarks

• Closing remarks from the Chamber. • Congratulate winners and thank parents, sponsors, VIPs, and audience.

30 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Hold State Event

EVENT JUDGE SUPPORT GUIDE

Once you have confirmed your Event Judges, ensure each judge receives the Code of Conduct (pg. 15) and signs and returns the Event Judge Commitment Letter. Alternate judges should do the same. SUPPORT STRATEGIES Schedule a briefing call with all committed judges at least 2 weeks before the State Event. The Emcee briefing and Judge briefing may be combined. Discuss the following items: 1. Review the Event Judge Commitment Letter and the Code of Conduct (pg. 15). Emphasize the importance of being fair and impartial. 2. Review the Event Judging Rubric and your Event Program. Share the Study Guide to show the event preparation guidance given to Local Finalists. 3. Review the judging process, including how each State Finalist will be assigned a judge to ask follow-up questions about their essay. 4. Hold a debrief call after the State Event to collect any feedback.

31 • National Civics Bee Playbook

KEY POINTS • Judges should be given copies of all Local Winners essays to review in advance of the Event. • Each judge will be assigned certain essays for which they should prepare follow-up questions. • Judges should recuse themselves from evaluating students they recognize.

HERE’S A TIP: The Event requires an odd number of Judges (either 3 judges or 5 judges) to avoid ties. Prepare a slate of alternate judges in case an Event Judge becomes unavailable.

Checklist 6: Report Hold State Results Event

Chapter 6

Report Results November 2023–May 2024

National Civics Bee in Mason City, Iowa, 2022

Review the Reporting Requirements (pg. 33) for documenting and sharing results. Create a spreadsheet to Measure Results from the Bee outreach conducted with different audiences. Create a spreadsheet to Measure Impact from the relationships that were formed or deepened as a result of the Bee outreach. Collect and Record Feedback from different audiences on what worked and what didn’t work about this year’s Bee.

Upload all results to the Competition Portal (Reviewr).

Write and submit the final survey that is required as part of your agreement with USCCF.

32 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Report Results

Reporting Requirements The Competition Portal Guide (Reviewr) provides instructions for different types of reports related to student submissions and scores. State Competition Partners are also responsible for documenting and sharing the information listed below and described on the following pages. In addition to these items, Partners will participate in a pre-survey and post-survey issued by the USCCF team.

Contest Documentation

Measurable Results and Impacts

Upload the following Contest Documentation to the Change to contest management:

Share the following Results and Impacts as part of your Final Report:

• Event Venue and Date

• Outreach Results (i.e., schools, judges, attendees, partners)

• Emcee Request • Speaker Bios • Commitment Letters

• Outreach Impact (i.e., new roles and relationships)

Media Clips and Other Assets Upload the following Assets to the Reviewr Platform:

• Event Photos • Media Clips • Testimonials from Students, Families, Judges, Speakers, and Partners

• Local Finalist Forms • Judging Scorecards

DID YOU KNOW? The feedback and outcomes shared by Local and State Competition Partners play a critical role in future plans for the National Civics Bee. They also contribute to a report that is shared with National Civics Bee funders and partners.

33 • National Civics Bee Playbook

REMINDER: FINAL SURVEY Submit final survey to USCCF by 10 business days after your State Competition. Refer to your grant agreement for more details.

Report Results

Index Below is a clickable list of terms you need to know in the Playbook. Click on any page number to go to the page where the term is located. C

Checklist 1: Prep for Launch, 12

Partner Recruitment Plan, 24

Checklist 2: Engage Students, 21

Primer National Civics Bee, 13

Checklist 3: Recruit Partners, 23 Checklist 4: Plan State Event, 25 Checklist 5: Hold State Event, 29 Checklist 6: Report Results, 32 Code of Conduct, 15

R Reporting Requirements, 33 Reporting Results, 20 Roles and Responsibilities, 16

Competition Plan, 18

Contest Overview, 5

State Event Agenda, 27

Contest Rules—Introduction, 14

State Event Guide, 30

Contest Timeline, 4

State Event Venue Plan, 26 State Quiz Competition Overview, 28

E Event Judge Support Guide, 31

Student Engagement Plan, 22

F Frequently Asked Questions, 6

Web Pages, 19 Welcome, 2

H How to Use This Playbook, 3

34 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Index

Appendix Downloadable, editable versions of Appendix items can be accessed here: State Appendix (link)

Brand Guide

30. Outreach Letter: Librarians

Code of Conduct

31. Outreach Letter: Media Partner

Commitment Letter: Emcee

32. Outreach Letter: Parents English

Commitment Letter: Essay Judge

33. Outreach Letter: Parents Spanish

Commitment Letter: Event Judge

34. Outreach Letter: Youth Group Leader

Competition Portal Guide (will be uploaded by December)

35. Parental Consent Form English

Contest Rules English

36. Parental Consent Form Spanish

Contest Rules Spanish

37. Press Kit

Fundraising and Sponsorship Toolkit

38. Press Release: State English

10. Judging Rubric: Event (State) (will be uploaded by December)

39. Press Release: State Spanish

11. Landing Page Template

40. Privacy Policy

12. Marketing Toolkit

41. Publicity Release English

13. Measure Impact

42. Publicity Release Spanish

14. Measure Results

43. Quiz Platform Guide (will be uploaded by December)

15. Media Outreach Guide

44. Record Feedback

16. Outreach Guide: Audience

45. Social Media Guidelines

17. Outreach Guide: Emcee

46. Student & Parent Guide

18. Outreach Guide: Event Judge

47. Student Flyer English

19. Outreach Guide: Government

48. Student Flyer Spanish

20. Outreach Guide: Library

49. Student Graphic Organizer (will be uploaded by December)

21. Outreach Guide: Local Business

50. Study Guide (will be uploaded by December)

22. Outreach Guide: Media

51. Support Guide: Emcee

23. Outreach Guide: School

52. Support Guide: Event Judge

24. Outreach Guide: Youth Group

53. Teacher Guide

25. Outreach Letter: Business Leader

54. Winners Letter: State English

26. Outreach Letter: Educator (Admin)

55. Winners Letter: State Spanish

27. Outreach Letter: Educator (Teacher)

56. W9

28. Outreach Letter: Event Judge (State) 29. Outreach Letter: Government Official

National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

HERE’S A TIP: Attach this Code of Conduct to Commitment Letters for Essay Judges, Event Emcee, and Event Judges.

36 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Prep for Launch

INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Commitment Letter: Emcee (link)

As an Emcee for the National Civics Bee, I commit to the following: • Attending the Live Event on [insert date and time] • Representing the National Civics Bee in a positive way, using a nonpartisan approach • Guiding Finalists through the rounds of the live competition, engaging the audience, interacting with Judges and Speakers, and providing light commentary • Being objective and thoughtful with my commentary • Reviewing any materials, including slides, Quiz questions and answers prior to the Live Event • Arriving at the venue at [insert time] to attend a briefing with the Finalists • Participating in a briefing call on [insert date and time] • Participating in a debrief after the event [insert date and time] • Obliging by the rules of the National Civics Bee and abiding by the Code of Conduct • Keeping all processes, including student information, confidential

Print Name:

Print Title:

Print Organization:

Signature:

Date:

37 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

DOWNLOAD, FILL, & PRINT

INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Commitment Letter: Essay Judge (link)

As an Essay Judge for the National Civics Bee, I commit to the following: • Being fair, objective, and thoughtful when reading and judging student essays • Reading each student submission assigned to me and submitting a score for each essay • Completing judging student essays by the judging deadline—January 16, 2024 • Participating in a debrief / evaluation after judging is complete • Obliging by the rules of the National Civics Bee and abiding by the Code of Conduct • Keeping all processes, including student essays, confidential • Judging essays through a nonpartisan lens • Recusing myself if I recognize an essay I am assigned

Print Name:

Print Title:

Print Organization:

Signature:

Date:

38 • National Civics Bee Playbook

DOWNLOAD, FILL, & PRINT

INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Commitment Letter: Event Judge (link)

As an Event Judge for the National Civics Bee, I commit to the following: • Attending the Event on [insert date and time] • Being fair, objective, and thoughtful when reading and judging student responses • Reading the Finalists’ essays and preparing questions for the essays assigned to me • Providing an unbiased evaluation of the Finalists at the Event and Judging through a nonpartisan lens • Assigning scores based on the terms and instruction in the Judging Rubric • Participating in a briefing call on [insert date and time] • Participating in a debrief after the event [insert date and time] • Obliging by the rules of the National Civics Bee and abiding by the Code of Conduct • Keeping all processes, including student information, confidential • Recusing myself if I recognize a conflict of interest

Print Name:

Print Title:

Print Organization:

Signature:

Date:

39 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

DOWNLOAD, FILL, & PRINT

Contest Rules Introduction The National Civics Bee Official Contest Rules govern the competition to ensure fairness and integrity. They are customized to include the name, address, and end date (including time zone) of each local chamber partner. Otherwise, the Contest Rules must not be modified in any way. As you review the Official Contest Rules in their entirety, please note the following eligibility requirements: • Any student registered in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade in a public, private, or home school is eligible to participate • Students may only apply to one competition, and it must be in their state of residence • All entries must be in English • If a student participated in a previous National Civics Bee, they must submit a new, unique entry • Any student related to (or living with) Chamber staff, leadership, Board of Directors, or any student who is related to any partners/co-Sponsors of the National Civics Bee is not eligible (to prevent any perception of bias, preferentialism, or discrimination)

40 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

DID YOU KNOW? Local and State Competition Partners are responsible for ensuring that Contest Rules are followed within their jurisdiction.

Contest Rules

Official Contest Rules

Official rules of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Civics Bee Contest (“Official Rules”). SPONSOR The sponsor of the contest is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 1615 H Street NW, Washington D.C., 20062 (“Sponsor”). The co-sponsors of the contest are LOCAL Chamber of Commerce, STREET ADDRESS and STATE Chamber of Commerce, STREET ADDRESS (“Co-Sponsors”). NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCE OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL REGULATIONS APPLY. ELIGIBILITY FOR ENTRY To be eligible to participate in the National Civics Bee, an applicant (“Entrant”) must: 1.

Be a student in grades six through eight at the time of entry;

2. Enter only one local chamber competition, which must be in their state of residence; 3. Be the sole author of their entry—no group entries or entries written by parents will be accepted; 4. Submit their entry in the English language; 5. Submit a new, unique entry, if they’ve participated in any past Civics Bees; 6. Agree to all Civics Bee Rules, including potentially attending the local, state, and national competitions. Employees, officers, and directors of the Sponsor or Co-Sponsors and any affiliated entities, and their respective immediate families (parents, spouses, children, siblings) or individuals residing in their household (whether or not related) are not eligible entrants. TERM The Contest began on [DATE] at [TIME US TIME ZONE] and ends [DATE] at [TIME US TIME ZONE]. All entries must be submitted by [DATE] at [TIME US TIME ZONE]. By submitting an entry, each entrant agrees to the Official Rules and warrants that his or her entry complies with all requirements set out in the Official Rules. This is a skills-based contest and chance plays no part in the determination of winners.

41 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Contest Rules

ENTRY PROCEDURE The Contest contains four phases: Phase One: Entrants must submit a 500-word essay in response to the prompt (“Entry”). Entries may be submitted through WEBSITE LINK or by mailing a hard copy submission, post-marked by DATE to MAILING ADDRESS. Hard copy submissions must include the student’s First Name, Last Name, School Name, ZIP Code, and Guardian Phone Number and Email Address. Entries received by any other means will not be considered. Entrants must submit their Entry before DATE at TIME US TIME ZONE (“Closing Date”). Phase Two: Twenty (20) local finalists will be selected based on the essay judging criteria listed below (See Judging Criteria for Selection of Local Finalists in Essay Competition). The local finalists will compete live in a local Civics Bee Competition, which will determine the First, Second, and Third Place Winners of the local competition based on the highest cumulative scores of the local competition. Phase Three: The top three winners from each local competition will advance to compete in their state’s Civics Bee Competition. These state finalists will compete live. The state finalist with the highest cumulative score will be named the First Place Winner of the State Competition. There will also be a Second Place Winner and Third Place Winner. Phase Four: The First Place Winner of the State Competition will advance to compete in the national-level competition of the National Civics Bee hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The national finalist with the highest cumulative score will be named the First Place Winner of the National Competition. There will also be a Second Place Winner and Third Place Winner. CONTEST PRIZES Local Competition Each local finalist that participates in the Local Civics Bee Competition will receive a certificate commemorating their participation. There will be one (1) third place winner of each Local Civics Bee Competition (“Third Place Winner”). The Third Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $125. There will be one (1) second place winner of each Local Civics Bee Competition (“Second Place Winner”). The Second Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $250. There will be one (1) first place winner of each Local Civics Bee Competition (“First Place Winner”). The First Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $500. The prize does not include any reimbursement of travel or any other expenses in conjunction with the Local Civics Bee Competition. The prize may not be transferred or assigned by the winner. No cash equivalent will be provided in lieu of the non-cash prize. Sponsor reserves the right to substitute the prize in the event of unavailability. To claim the cash prize, the Parent or Guardian of the winner must provide a valid taxpayer identification number to the Co-Sponsor. Payment of all federal, state, and local taxes are solely the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian of the winner(s).

42 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Contest Rules

State Competition Each state finalist that participates in the State Civics Bee Competition will receive a certificate commemorating their participation. There will be one (1) third place winner of each State Civics Bee Competition (“Third Place Winner”). The Third Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $500. There will be one (1) second place winner of each State Civics Bee Competition (“Second Place Winner”). The Second Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $750. There will be one (1) first place winner of each State Civics Bee Competition (“First Place Winner”). The First Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $1,000. The prize does not include any reimbursement of travel or any other expenses in conjunction with the State Civics Bee Competition. The prize may not be transferred or assigned by the winner. No cash equivalent will be provided in lieu of the non-cash prize. Sponsor reserves the right to substitute the prize in the event of unavailability. To claim the cash prize, the Parent or Guardian of the winner must provide a valid taxpayer identification number to the Co-Sponsor. Payment of all federal, state, and local taxes are solely the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian of the winner(s). National Competition Each finalist that participates in the 2024 National Civics Bee Competition will receive a certificate commemorating their participation. There will be one (1) third place winner of the National Civics Bee Competition (“Third Place Winner”). The Third Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $5,000. There will be one (1) second place winner of the National Civics Bee Competition (“Second Place Winner”). The Second Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $7,500. There will be one (1) first place winner of the National Civics Bee Competition (“First Place Winner”). The First Place Winner will receive a separate trophy and a cash prize of $10,000. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation will also offer a travel and lodging stipend to national finalists to attend the National Civics Bee Competition. The prize may not be transferred or assigned by the winner. No cash equivalent will be provided in lieu of the non-cash prize. Sponsor reserves the right to substitute the prize in the event of unavailability. To claim the cash prize, the Parent or Guardian of the winner must provide a valid taxpayer identification number to the Sponsor. Payment of all federal, state, and local taxes are solely the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian of the winner(s). ODDS OF WINNING Odds of being named a local, state, or national finalist or being selected as one of the placed winners of the local, state, or national competitions depends on the number of eligible applicants received on or before the Closing Date and the skill of the entrants.

43 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Contest Rules

JUDGING CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF FINALISTS IN ESSAY COMPETITION Each Entry will be evaluated by a group of judges selected by the Sponsor or Co-Sponsors. Each judge will use the rubric provided on the submission page to evaluate each Entry. Criteria covered in the rubric include “Demonstrate an Understanding of Civic Principles,” “Acknowledge and Address Opposing Points of View,” “Acknowledge and Address at Least One Founding Principle and One Civic Virtue,” “Use Supporting Evidence and Primary Sources,” and “Clearly Describe an Idea that is Innovative or New to Them.” The twenty (20) highest scoring Entries will be selected as the local finalists to compete in the live local competition, and notified via email and/or phone, to participate in the Local Civics Bee Competition. The parent or legal guardian of a local or state finalist that is under the age of 18 must execute and return any required consent and publicity release within ten (10) days of notification attempt or the finalist will be disqualified, the prize will be forfeited, and an alternate finalist(s) will be chosen. PROCESS FOR CIVICS BEE COMPETITION The Local Civics Bee Competition will be a live local event with the twenty (20) local finalists answering two rounds of civics-based quiz questions. Finalists will receive one point for each correct answer and zero points for incorrect answers or unanswered questions. The five students with the highest scores at the end of round 2 will advance to round 3. The third round will include questions from a panel of judges regarding the student’s essay submission. The student with the highest cumulative score at the end of the third round will be determined as the First Place Winner of the Local Civics Bee Competition. Second and third place winners will also be announced. The first, second, and third-place winners of the Local Civics Bee Competition will advance to the State Civics Bee Competition. The state competition will be a live event with the top three finalists from each Local Civics Bee Competition in that state competing against each other. Participants will answer two rounds of civics-based quiz questions. Finalists will receive one point for each correct answer and zero points for incorrect answers or unanswered questions. The five students with the highest scores at the end of round 2 will advance to round 3. The third round will include a 3-minute pitch from each state finalist about the essay they submitted for the local competition. This will be followed by questions from a panel of judges regarding the pitch and essay submission. The student with the highest cumulative score at the end of the third round will be determined as the First Place Winner of the State Civics Bee Competition. Second and third place winners will also be announced. The national competition will be a live event with the top finalist from each State Civics Bee Competition competing against each other. Participants will answer rounds of civics-based quiz questions. Finalists will be eliminated based on the accuracy of their answers to the questions. Finalists will also deliver a pitch of the topic and solutions they wrote about in their essay and may be asked to participate in a group-solve challenge as part of the live event. The finalist with the highest cumulative score at the end of the competition will be determined as the First Place Winner of the 2024 National Civics Bee Competition. Second and third place winners will also be announced. In the event of a tie at the end of the quiz rounds at the local, state, or national competitions, the students who are tied will participate in a tiebreaker round where they will answer additional civics-based quiz questions until the tie is broken.

44 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Contest Rules

PUBLICITY RELEASE You agree to grant the Sponsor and Co-Sponsor a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide license to edit, telecast, exhibit, rerun, reproduce, use, syndicate, license, print, distribute, and otherwise exploit any items (including any photos, videos, audio, or written material) submitted as part of your contest entry, or any portion thereof, in any manner, and in any and all formats and media now known or hereafter devised, without payment to you or any third party. You represent and warrant that you are the parent or legal guardian of the minor and provide your express consent for your child and information about your child to appear in any materials submitted in the Contest or related event or ceremony, and you have the full legal right, power, and authority to grant to the Sponsor and Co-Sponsor this license. Information about your child may include his/her name, address (city and state), likeness, photograph, voice, biographical information, and/or any statements made by him/her regarding the Contest or its sponsors. Each Finalist (or if a minor, their parent or adult legal guardian) must complete, execute and return a declaration of eligibility and publicity release, except where prohibited. GENERAL RULES No Entry can be withdrawn after the Closing Date. Neither the Sponsor, Co-Sponsor nor the Entrant’s parents, affiliated entities or agents, are responsible for any illegible, lost, stolen, late, damaged, incomplete, mutilated or misdirected applications or other documents. Entrants are responsible for ensuring proper contact information has been submitted and is maintained throughout the Civics Bee to allow communications about the Civics Bee. Erroneous or false information provided in the Entry will result in immediate disqualification of the applicants. Sponsor(s) and the Judges otherwise retain the right to disqualify any applicant in their sole discretion. If, for any reason, the Civics Bee is not capable of running as planned, Sponsor and Co-Sponsor reserve the right in their sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify, or suspend the Civics Bee at any time. Sponsor and Co-Sponsor reserve the right to amend the rules of the contest at any time. By creating an Entry, or by being an Entrant, you understand that there is no joint venture, partnership, employment, or agency relation between you and the Sponsor or Co-Sponsor arising from any Entry. The decisions of the Judges are final, and Entrants specifically agree that the decision of the Judges and any decision of Sponsor or Co-Sponsor is not subject to review or appeal in any forum whatsoever, including courts of law. Any information provided as part of this Contest is provided according to the website’s Privacy Policy, as they may be amended from time to time, and as otherwise provided for in these Rules. Entrants agree that personal data, especially name and address, may be processed, shared, and otherwise used for the purposes and within the context of the Contest and any other purposes outlined in these Official Rules and according to the website’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The data may also be used by the Sponsor in order to verify the participant’s First Name, Last Name, School Name, ZIP Code, Guardian’s Phone Number/Email, or to otherwise verify the participant’s eligibility to participate in the Contest. Participants have the right to access, review, rectify, or cancel any personal data held by the Sponsor by writing to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 1615 H Street NW, Washington D.C. 20062, civictrust@uschamber.com.

45 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Contest Rules

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY By entering the Contest, entrant agrees that (1) any and all disputes, claims, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with the Contest, or any prizes awarded, shall be resolved individually without resort to any form of class action; (2) any claims, judgment, and awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, including costs associated with entering the Contest, but in no event attorney’s fees; and (3) under no circumstances, will any entrant be permitted to obtain any award for, and entrant hereby waives all rights to claim, punitive, incidental, or consequential damages, and any and all rights to have damages multiplied or otherwise increased and any other damages, other than damages for actual out-of-pocket expenses. But in no event shall the liability of the Sponsor or Co-Sponsor exceed $100. WINNERS LIST To request a list of the names of the top three winners, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 1615 H Street NW, Washington D.C. 20062.

46 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Contest Rules

Reglas Oficiales Del Concurso De Educación Cívica De La Fundación De La Cámara De Comercio De Los Estados Unidos Reglas Oficiales

PATROCINADOR El patrocinador del concurso es la Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de los Estados Unidos, 1615 H Street NW, Washington D. C., 20062 (“Patrocinador”). Los copatrocinadores del concurso son [Cámara de Comercio LOCAL], [DIRECCIÓN] y [Cámara de Comercio ESTATAL], [DIRECCIÓN] (“Copatrocinadores”). NO ES NECESARIO REALIZAR NINGUNA COMPRA PARA PARTICIPAR O GANAR. UNA COMPRA NO AUMENTARÁ SUS POSIBILIDADES DE GANAR. NULO DONDE ESTÉ PROHIBIDO. SE APLICAN TODAS LAS REGULACIONES FEDERALES, ESTATALES Y LOCALES APLICABLES. ELEGIBILIDAD PARA CONCURSAR Para ser elegible para participar en el Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica, un solicitante (“Participante”) debe: 1.

Ser un estudiante en los grados seis a ocho en el momento de la participación;

2. Ingrese solo a una competencia de cámara local, que debe estar en su estado de residencia; 3. Ser el único autor de su participación: no se aceptarán participaciones grupales ni participaciones escritas por los padres; 4. Envíe su participación en el idioma inglés; 5. Envíe una participación nueva y única, si ha participado en Concursos de Educación Cívica anteriores; 6. Estar de acuerdo con todas las Reglas del Concurso de Educación Cívica, incluida la posibilidad de asistir a las competencias locales, estatales y nacionales. Los empleados, funcionarios y directores del Patrocinador o Copatrocinadores y cualquier entidad afiliada, y sus respectivas familias inmediatas (padres, cónyuges, hijos, hermanos) o personas que residen en su hogar (estén o no relacionados) no son participantes elegibles. PLAZO El Concurso comenzó el 13 de noviembre a las 12:01 a.m. [ZONA HORARIA DE EE. UU.] y finaliza el 8 de enero a las 11:59 p.m. [ZONA HORARIA DE EE. UU.]. Todas las participaciones deben enviarse antes del 8 de enero a las 11:59 p.m. [ZONA HORARIA DE EE. UU]. Al enviar una participación, cada participante acepta las Reglas Oficiales y garantiza que su entrada cumple con todos los requisitos establecidos en las Reglas Oficiales. Este es un concurso basado en habilidades y el azar no juega ningún papel en la determinación de los ganadores.

47 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Contest Rules

PROCEDIMIENTO DE PARA PARTICIPAR El Concurso consta de cuatro fases: Fase Uno: Los participantes deben enviar un ensayo de 500 palabras en respuesta a la solicitud (“Participación”). Las participaciones se pueden enviar a través de [ENLACE AL SITIO WEB DE EVALUADOR] o enviando una copia impresa, marcada por correo antes del 8 de enero a [DIRECCIÓN POSTAL]. Las presentaciones impresas deben incluir el nombre, apellido, nombre de la escuela, código postal y número de teléfono y dirección de correo electrónico del tutor del estudiante. Las participaciones recibidas por cualquier otro medio no serán consideradas. Los participantes deben enviar su Participación antes del 8 de enero a las 11:59 p.m. [ZONA HORARIA DE EE. UU.] (“Fecha límite”). Fase Dos: Se seleccionarán veinte (20) finalistas locales en función de los criterios de evaluación de ensayos que se enumeran a continuación (Ver Criterios de evaluación para la selección de finalistas locales en la competencia de ensayos). Los finalistas locales competirán en vivo en un Concurso de Educación Cívica local, que determinará los ganadores del primer, segundo y tercer lugar de la competencia local en función de los puntajes acumulados más altos de la competencia local. Fase Tres: Los tres primeros ganadores de cada competencia local avanzarán para competir en el Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica de su estado. Estos finalistas estatales competirán en vivo. El finalista estatal con el puntaje acumulado más alto será nombrado el ganador del primer lugar de la Competencia Estatal. También habrá un ganador del segundo lugar y un ganador del tercer lugar. Fase Cuatro: El ganador del primer lugar de la Competencia Estatal avanzará para competir en la competencia a nivel nacional del Concurso de Educación Cívica Nacional organizado por la Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de los Estados Unidos. El finalista nacional con el puntaje acumulado más alto será nombrado el ganador del primer lugar de la Competencia Nacional. También habrá un ganador del segundo lugar y un ganador del tercer lugar. PREMIOS DEL CONCURSO Competencia Local Cada finalista local que participe en el Concurso de Educación Cívica Local recibirá un certificado conmemorativo de su Participación. Habrá un (1) ganador del tercer lugar de cada Concurso Local de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del tercer lugar”). El ganador del tercer lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de $125. Habrá un (1) ganador del segundo lugar de cada Concurso Local de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del segundo lugar”). El ganador del segundo lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de $250. Habrá un (1) ganador del primer lugar de cada Concurso Local de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del primer lugar”). El ganador del primer lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de $500.

48 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Contest Rules

El premio no incluye ningún reembolso de viaje o cualquier otro gasto relacionado con el Concurso Local de Educación Cívica. El premio no puede ser transferido o asignado por el ganador. No se proporcionará ningún equivalente en efectivo en lugar del premio no monetario. El Patrocinador se reserva el derecho de sustituir el premio en caso de no haber disponibilidad. Para reclamar el premio en efectivo, el Padre o Tutor del ganador debe proporcionar un número de identificación de contribuyente válido al Copatrocinador. El pago de todos los impuestos federales, estatales y locales es responsabilidad exclusiva de los padres o tutores legales de los ganadores. Competencia Estatal: Cada finalista estatal que participe en el Concurso Estatal de Educación Cívica recibirá un certificado que conmemora su Participación. Habrá un (1) ganador del tercer lugar de cada Concurso Estatal de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del tercer lugar”). El ganador del tercer lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de $500. Habrá un (1) ganador del segundo lugar de cada Concurso Estatal de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del segundo lugar”). El ganador del segundo lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de $750. Habrá un (1) ganador del primer lugar de cada Concurso Estatal de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del primer lugar”). El ganador del primer lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de $1,000. El premio no incluye ningún reembolso de viaje o cualquier otro gasto relacionado con el Concurso Estatal de Educación Cívica. El premio no puede ser transferido o asignado por el ganador. No se proporcionará ningún equivalente en efectivo en lugar del premio no monetario. El Patrocinador se reserva el derecho de sustituir el premio en caso de no haber disponibilidad. Para reclamar el premio en efectivo, el Padre o Tutor del ganador debe proporcionar un número de identificación de contribuyente válido al Copatrocinador. El pago de todos los impuestos federales, estatales y locales es responsabilidad exclusiva de los padres o tutores legales de los ganadores. Competencia Nacional: Cada finalista que participe en el Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica 2024 recibirá un certificado conmemorativo de su Participación. Habrá un (1) ganador del tercer lugar del Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del tercer lugar”). El ganador del tercer lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de al menos $5,000. Habrá un (1) ganador del segundo lugar del Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del segundo lugar”). El ganador del segundo lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de al menos $7,500. Habrá un (1) ganador del primer lugar del Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica (“Ganador del primer lugar”). El ganador del primer lugar recibirá un trofeo por separado y un premio en efectivo de al menos $10,000. La Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de los Estados Unidos también ofrecerá un estipendio de viaje y alojamiento a los finalistas nacionales para asistir al Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica. El premio no puede ser transferido o asignado por el ganador. No se proporcionará ningún equivalente en efectivo en lugar del premio no monetario. El Patrocinador se reserva el derecho de sustituir el premio en caso de no haber disponibilidad.

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Para reclamar el premio en efectivo, el Padre o Tutor del ganador debe proporcionar un número de identificación de contribuyente válido al Patrocinador. El pago de todos los impuestos federales, estatales y locales es responsabilidad exclusiva de los padres o tutores legales de los ganadores. PROBABILIDADES DE GANAR Las probabilidades de ser nombrado finalista local o nacional o de ser seleccionado como uno de los ganadores de las competencias locales, estatales o nacionales dependen de la cantidad de solicitantes elegibles recibidos en la Fecha Límite o antes y la habilidad de los participantes. CRITERIOS DE EVALUACIÓN PARA LA SELECCIÓN DE FINALISTAS EN EL CONCURSO DE ENSAYOS Cada Participación será evaluada por un grupo de jueces seleccionados por el Patrocinador o Copatrocinadores. Cada juez usará la rúbrica provista en la página de presentación para evaluar cada Participación. Los criterios cubiertos en la rúbrica incluyen “Demostrar comprensión de los principios cívicos”, “Reconocer y abordar puntos de vista opuestos”, “Reconocer y abordar al menos un principio fundamental y una virtud cívica”, “Usar evidencia de apoyo y fuentes primarias” y “Describir claramente una idea que sea innovadora o nueva para ellos”. Las veinte (20) Participaciones con la puntuación más alta serán seleccionadas como finalistas locales para competir en la competencia local en vivo, y notificados por correo electrónico y/o teléfono, para participar en el Concurso Local de Educación Cívica. El padre o tutor legal de un finalista local o estatal menor de 18 años debe formalizar y devolver cualquier consentimiento requerido y liberación de publicidad dentro de los diez (10) días posteriores al intento de notificación o el finalista será descalificado, el premio se perderá y se elegirá un finalista alternativo. PROCESO PARA EL CONCURSO DE EDUCACIÓN CÍVICA El Concurso Local de Educación Cívica será un evento local en vivo con los veinte (20) finalistas locales respondiendo dos rondas de preguntas basadas en educación cívica. Los finalistas recibirán un punto por cada respuesta correcta y cero puntos por respuestas incorrectas o preguntas sin respuesta. Los cinco estudiantes con los puntajes más altos al final de la segunda ronda avanzarán a la tercera ronda. La tercera ronda incluirá preguntas de un panel de jueces con respecto al ensayo presentado por del estudiante. El estudiante con el puntaje acumulado más alto al final de la tercera ronda será determinado como el ganador del primer lugar del Concurso Local de Educación Cívica. También se anunciarán los ganadores del segundo y tercer lugar. Los ganadores del primer, segundo y tercer lugar del Concurso Local de Educación Cívica avanzarán al Concurso Estatal de Educación Cívica. La competencia estatal será un evento en vivo con los tres finalistas principales de cada Concurso Local de Educación Cívica de ese estado compitiendo entre sí. Los participantes responderán dos rondas de preguntas basadas en educación cívica. Los finalistas recibirán un punto por cada respuesta correcta y cero puntos por respuestas incorrectas o preguntas sin respuesta. Los cinco estudiantes con los puntajes más altos al final de la segunda ronda avanzarán a la tercera ronda. La tercera ronda incluirá una presentación de 3 minutos de cada finalista estatal sobre el ensayo que presentaron para la competencia local. Esto será seguido por preguntas de un panel de jueces con respecto a la presentación y al ensayo presentado. El estudiante con el puntaje acumulado más alto al final de la tercera ronda será determinado como el ganador del primer lugar del Concurso Estatal de Educación Cívica. También se anunciarán los ganadores del segundo y tercer lugar.

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Contest Rules

La competencia nacional será un evento en vivo con los mejores finalistas de cada Concurso Estatal de Educación Cívica compitiendo entre sí. Los participantes responderán rondas de preguntas basadas en educación cívica. Los finalistas serán eliminados en función de la precisión de sus respuestas a las preguntas. Los finalistas también harán una presentación sobre el tema y las soluciones sobre las que escribieron en su ensayo y se les puede pedir que participen en un desafío de resolución grupal como parte del evento en vivo. El finalista con el puntaje acumulado más alto al final de la competencia se determinará como el ganador del primer lugar del Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica 2024. También se anunciarán los ganadores del segundo y tercer lugar. En caso de empate al final de las rondas de las competencias locales, estatales o nacionales, los estudiantes empatados participarán en una ronda de desempate en la que responderán preguntas adicionales basadas en educación cívica hasta que se rompa el empate. LANZAMIENTO PUBLICITARIO Acepta otorgar al Patrocinador y Copatrocinador una licencia no exclusiva, perpetua y mundial para editar, transmitir, exhibir, repetir, reproducir, usar, sindicar, licenciar, imprimir, distribuir y explotar de cualquier otra manera cualquier artículo (incluidas fotos, videos, audio o material escrito) enviado como parte de su Participación en el concurso, o cualquier parte del mismo, de cualquier manera, y en todos y cada uno de los formatos y medios ahora conocidos o ideados en el futuro, sin pago para usted ni para terceros. Declara y garantiza que es el padre o tutor legal del menor y proporciona su consentimiento expreso para que su hijo y la información sobre su hijo aparezcan en cualquier material enviado en el Concurso o evento o ceremonia relacionados, y tiene el pleno derecho legal, poder y autoridad para otorgar al Patrocinador y Copatrocinador esta licencia. La información sobre su hijo puede incluir su nombre, dirección (ciudad y estado), imagen, fotografía, voz, información biográfica y/o cualquier declaración hecha por él/ella con respecto al Concurso o sus patrocinadores. Cada Finalista (o si es un menor, su padre o tutor legal adulto) debe completar, formalizar y devolver una declaración de elegibilidad y liberación de publicidad, excepto donde esté prohibido. NORMAS GENERALES No se puede retirar ninguna Participación después de la fecha límite. Ni el Patrocinador, Copatrocinador, ni los padres del participante, entidades afiliadas o agentes son responsables de solicitudes u otros documentos ilegibles, perdidos, robados, tardíos, dañados, incompletos, mutilados o mal dirigidos. Los participantes son responsables de garantizar que se haya enviado la información de contacto adecuada y se mantenga durante todo el Concurso de Educación Cívica para permitir las comunicaciones. La información proporcionada en la Participación que sea errónea o falsa resultará en la descalificación inmediata de los solicitantes. El Patrocinador y los Jueces se reservan el derecho de descalificar a cualquier solicitante a su entera discreción. Si, por cualquier motivo, el Concurso de Educación Cívica no se puede llevar a cabo según lo planeado, el Patrocinador y el Copatrocinador se reservan el derecho, a su exclusivo criterio, de cancelar, rescindir, modificar o suspenderlo en cualquier momento. El Patrocinador y el Copatrocinador se reservan el derecho de modificar las reglas del concurso en cualquier momento.

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Al crear una Participación, o al ser un Participante, entiende que no existe una relación de empresa conjunta, sociedad, empleo o agencia entre usted y el Patrocinador o Copatrocinador que surja de cualquier Participación. Las decisiones de los Jueces son definitivas, y los Participantes acuerdan específicamente que la decisión de los Jueces y cualquier decisión del Patrocinador o Copatrocinador no está sujeta a revisión o apelación en ningún foro, incluidos los tribunales de justicia. Cualquier información proporcionada como parte de este Concurso se proporciona de acuerdo con la Política de Privacidad del sitio web, ya que puede modificarse de vez en cuando y según lo dispuesto en estas Reglas. Los participantes aceptan que los datos personales, especialmente el nombre y la dirección, pueden procesarse, compartirse y utilizarse de otro modo para los fines y en el contexto del Concurso y para cualquier otro fin descrito en estas Reglas Oficiales y de acuerdo con los Términos de Uso y la Política de Privacidad del sitio web. Los datos también pueden ser utilizados por el Patrocinador para verificar el nombre, apellido, nombre de la escuela, código postal, número de teléfono/correo electrónico del tutor del participante o para verificar la elegibilidad del participante para participar en el Concurso. Los participantes tienen derecho a acceder, revisar, rectificar o cancelar cualquier dato personal en poder del Patrocinador escribiendo a la Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de los Estados Unidos, 1615 H Street NW, Washington D. C. 20062, civictrust@uschamber.com. LIMITACIÓN DE RESPONSABILIDAD Al participar en el Concurso, el participante acepta que (1) todas y cada una de las disputas, reclamos y causas de acción que surjan de o en relación con el Concurso, o cualquier premio otorgado, se resolverán individualmente sin recurrir a ninguna forma de demanda colectiva; (2) cualquier reclamo, juicio y adjudicación se limitarán a los costos reales de desembolso incurridos, incluidos los costos asociados con la Participación en el Concurso, pero en ningún caso los honorarios de un abogado; y (3) bajo ninguna circunstancia, se permitirá a ningún participante obtener ningún premio por dichos motivos, y el participante renuncia a todos los derechos a reclamar, daños punitivos, incidentales o consecuentes, y todos los derechos a los daños y perjuicios multiplicados o aumentados y cualquier otro daño, aparte de los daños por los gastos reales de desembolso. Pero en ningún caso la responsabilidad del Patrocinador o Copatrocinador excederá los $100. LISTA DE GANADORES Para solicitar una lista de los nombres de los tres ganadores principales, envíe un sobre con sello y dirección propia a la Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de los Estados Unidos, 1615 H Street NW, Washington D.C. 20062.

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Contest Rules

Landing Page Template

[STATE CHAMBER LOGO] Calling all middle school students! Share your ideas and flex your civics knowledge in the National Civics Bee.

ABOUT THE BEE The [insert state chamber name] is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and [insert number of local chambers] chambers of commerce across [insert state name] to host a first-of-its-kind statewide civics competition. The 2023-24 National Civics Bee encourages young Americans in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. The competition, modeled on traditional spelling and geography bees, gives students the chance to win recognition and earn cash prizes by sharing ideas for improving their communities and showing their enthusiasm for civics. The winner of the National Civics Bee [insert state name] State Finals will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the inaugural National Civics Bee national championship in Fall 2024.

WHY CIVICS? We are hosting the National Civics Bee [insert state name] State Finals because we believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge throughout [insert state name] and celebrating our civic pride. LOCAL COMPETITIONS • [Insert Chamber Name: Website Link 1] • [Insert Chamber Name: Website Link 2] • [Insert Chamber Name: Website Link 3] • [Insert Chamber Name: Website Link 4] • [Insert Chamber Name: Website Link 5] STATE FINALS [Date] [Time] [Venue Name] [Address] [Prize Details] SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Are you interested in showcasing your company's commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact [insert contact information]. CONTACT US If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact [insert contact information].

53 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

Measure Impact The National Civics Bee provides an opportunity to develop new relationships and reach new audiences. Use the chart below or create a spreadsheet to record examples of specific groups or leaders you engaged, and how they each demonstrate impact for your organization.

Audience

Target

Students (Submissions)

Topics and communities represented

Schools

Regions and Title I schools represented

Youth Groups

List of partners and their contributions

Libraries

List of partners and their contributions

Local Businesses

List of new roles and relationships

Media Partners

Links to media coverage with sample clippings

Government Officials

List of officials, their roles, and their affilitions

Essay Judges

List of judges and their bios

Event Judges

List of judges and their bios

Event Attendees

List of new roles and relationships

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Result

Measure Results The success of the National Civics Bee relies on reaching a number of students and community members through different tools and strategies. Use the chart below or create a spreadsheet to fill in the targets you set and the results you measured for engaging different audiences.

Audience Students (Submissions)

Target 100

Schools Youth Groups Libraries Local Businesses Media Partners Government Officials Essay Judges

At least 10

Event Judges

3 or 5

Event Attendees

100 (Local) or 200 (State)

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Result

AUDIENCE

OUTREACH GUIDE State Events for the National Civics Bee should attract a minimum of 200 audience members including the families and supporters of Local Winners, local business leaders, government officials, and members of the media. Audience members will have the opportunity to participate by answering quiz questions during the Event. OUTREACH STRATEGIES Recruiting enthusiastic audience members will contribute to a successful Event and a meaningful experience for Local Winners. Invite guests who played a role in the Bee, as well as other members of the community: 1. Review the outreach conducted with schools, youth groups, libraries, local businesses, media outlets, and government officials to develop a list of invitees. 2. Compile contact information for invitees and prepare customized invitations for each type of audience. 3. Send invitations 4 weeks prior to the Event, with reminders and directions 2 weeks prior to the Event.

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Join us to celebrate local students and flex your civics knowledge at a community event for the National Civics Bee. THE ASK

RECRUITING AUDIENCES • Reserve at least 2 invitations for each Local Winner for their families; consider inviting the Local Finalists’ teachers, principals, and afterschool leaders. • Consider providing special access for members of the media to conduct interviews and take photos. • Ask Event Judges, board members, and local sponsors for help recruiting government officials and civic leaders.

HERE’S A TIP: Use the Press Kit and the Student Flyer when contacting media organizations. Track your attendee list using a spreadsheet that can be used for reporting results after the Event.

EMCEE

OUTREACH GUIDE Emcees are critical to the success of National Civics Bee Events. They guide State Participants through the rounds of the live competition, engage the audience, interact with Judges and Speakers, and provide light commentary on questions, answers, and leaderboard scores. As public representatives of the Bee, Emcees should demonstrate excitement for The Bee’s mission and goals. OUTREACH STRATEGIES The National Civics Bee Emcee is a highprofile role that contributes to both the flow and the mood of the Event. Participating in the Bee is way to give a voice to students’ ideas for improving their community. 1. Identify potential Emcees who represent different parts of the community and diverse points of view.

Commit at least 5 hours of your time engaging with students as an Emcee at a Local Event for the National Civics Bee. THE ASK

FINDING AN EMCEE • Consider emcees who can comfortably engage with students, interact with an audience, and improvise commentary to support a live civics quiz. • Look for community members who will represent the Bee in a positive way, using a nonpartisan approach. • At least 48 hours before confirming your Emcee, submit their name and bio to USCCF for approval.

2. Make an initial contact list for at least 2 to 3 potential Emcees and assign responsible team members.

HERE’S A TIP:

3. Begin identifying potential Emcees in February 2024, to secure an Emcee commitment by March 2024.

Event Speakers should meet the same requirements as Emcees, and offer nonpartisan views. Provide interested emcees with the Commitment Letter: Emcee and the Code of Conduct.

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EVENT JUDGE OUTREACH GUIDE

Event Judges play the pivotal role of determining which 3 Local Winners become 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Winners at the State Event. Events may include either 3 Judges or 5 Judges. Each Judge reviews Local Winners Essays in advance, asks follow-up questions, considers awide variety of student responses, and provides an unbiased evaluation during the event. OUTREACH STRATEGIES Many community members will view serving as a National Civics Bee Judge to be an honor. Participating in the Bee allows Event Judges to hear students’ ideas for improving their community. 1. Identify potential Judges who represent different parts of the community and diverse points of view.

Commit at least 5 hours of your time to judging student responses at a State Event for the National Civics Bee. THE ASK

FINDING JUDGES • Crowd source ideas from your team and board members. Consider relationships from past events hosted by your team. • Look for community members who have experience working with students, and bring an understanding of students’ points of view. • When speaking to educators, officials, and business leaders, inquire about serving as an Event Judge.

2. Make an initial contact list for at least 7 to 10 potential Event Judges and assign responsible team members. 3. Begin identifying potential Judges in February 2024, to secure judging commitments by March 2024.

HERE’S A TIP: Use the Letter: Event Judges and the Student Flyer when contacting potential judges. Provide interested judges with the Commitment Letter: Event Judges and the Code of Conduct.

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GOVERNMENT OUTREACH GUIDE

Government officials are real life role models and advocates for civic engagement. When officials promote and participate in the Bee, they help to validate students’ voices and perspectives. The Bee allows Local and State Competition Partners to deepen their government relationships over shared civic goals. OUTREACH STRATEGIES Local officials often host opportunities to connect with their constituents. Participating in the Bee allows officials to engage directly with students and their ideas for improving their community. 1. Identify local officials from different political parties, and from all areas of government (i.e., city council members, mayor, state representatives, U.S. senators, judges).

Support the Bee by writing a promotional blog, posting a short video, or serving as an Event Judge or Speaker. THE ASK

FINDING PARTNERS • Crowd source ideas from your team and board members. Consider relationships from past events hosted by your team (e.g., chamber advocates). • Use www.USA.gov to find contact information for your federal, state, and local elected officials. • When speaking to business leaders, inquire about suggested contacts for local officials.

2. Make a contact list of chiefs of staff and community outreach directors at your local government offices. 3. Begin identifying government partners in November 2023, to secure commitments at least 4 weeks prior to your Event.

HERE’S A TIP: Use the Letter: Government Official and the Student Flyer when contacting potential partners. Provide interested local officials with the Press Release and Landing Page URL.

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LIBRARY

OUTREACH GUIDE Libraries are a safe meeting spot for students to spend time after school or on the weekends. They also serve as a venue for students and families to access the internet and work on computers that they may not have at home. Reaching out to libraries helps Local Competition Partners to develop ties with important community spaces. OUTREACH STRATEGIES Public libraries often host community events. Participating in the Bee allows libraries to share an exciting opportunity with their visitors, and to promote civic engagement. 1. Identify neighborhood and county libraries in your area. Compile a list of librarians or program directors to contact. 2. Review websites of local libraries to identify events where Bee materials could be distributed. Identify past or current library speakers who could promote the Bee with their networks. 3. Begin identifying libraries in September 2023, to secure commitments from participating libraries by November 2023.

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Provide student flyers and printed letters for parents to encourage community youth to enter the Bee. THE ASK

FINDING PARTNERS • Crowd source ideas from your team and board members. Consider relationships from past events hosted by your team (e.g., library volunteers). • Use Google Maps to find neighborhood and county libraries in your district. • When speaking to youth group leaders, inquire about libraries with civic initiatives or that serve as popular meeting spaces.

HERE’S A TIP: Use the Letter: Librarians and the Student Flyer when contacting organization leaders. Provide interested schools with Letter: Educator (Teacher), Letter: Parents, Student & Parent Guide, and Teacher Guide.

LOCAL BUSINESS OUTREACH GUIDE

Businesses create opportunities for members of their communities, and play an important role in civic participation. Businesses also serve families of middle school students, as both employees and customers. Including business leaders in the Bee is a way for Local and State Competition Partners to expand and strengthen their networks. OUTREACH STRATEGIES Businesses often contribute resources to community events, run promotions, and sponsor awards for local students. Participating in the Bee allows businesses to support an exciting opportunity for their customers, and to demonstrate their commitment to civic engagement. 1. Identify local businesses—from momand-pop shops, salons, and ice cream parlors, to grocery stores, corporate offices, and car dealerships.

Support your Local or State Civics Bee Event or sponsor additional prizes for Local and State Winners. THE ASK

FINDING PARTNERS • Crowd source ideas from your team and board members. Consider relationships from past events hosted by your team (e.g., members of the local chamber). • For larger corporate offices, identify businesses with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) departments. • When speaking to youth group leaders, inquire about businesses that have supported civic engagement activities.

2. Compile a list of contacts by reviewing business listings on Yelp and Google. 3. Begin identifying businesses in November 2023, to secure sponsorship commitments at least 4 weeks prior to your Event.

HERE’S A TIP: Use the Letter: Business Leader and the Student Flyer when contacting business leaders. Refer to the Fundraising and Sponsorship Toolkit for more information.

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MEDIA

OUTREACH GUIDE Media engagement is a critical tool for recruiting students, promoting Local and State Events, and celebrating Local Finalists and Winners. Local TV stations, radio stations, and newspapers can also highlight commitments that outreach partners and sponsors make to the Bee. Connecting with media outlets helps Local and State Competition Partners to spread the word about their programs and mission. OUTREACH STRATEGIES Local reporters and editors often cover stories about students in their community. Partnering with the Bee gives media outlets access to interviews and event photos. 1. Identify newspapers and other publications serving your area. Compile a contact list of reporters and editors who cover education, government, business, or community issues. 2. Make a contact list of PSA directors and community outreach directors at your local TV and radio stations. 3. Begin identifying media partners in November 2023, to secure commitments for coverage at least 4 weeks prior to your Event.

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Use your programs, channels, and PSAs to promote the Bee and highlight Local and State Winners and sponsors. THE ASK

FINDING PARTNERS • Crowd source ideas from your team and board members. Consider relationships from past events hosted by your team (e.g., past media coverage). • Search for recent news stories about local students or civics, and note the publication and author. • When speaking to business leaders, ask if they will use their media contacts to run a PSA or sponsored article. to run a PSA or sponsored article.

HERE’S A TIP: Use the Letter: Media Partner and the Student Flyer when contacting potential partners. Provide interested reporters and media influencers with the Press Release and Landing Page URL.

SCHOOL

OUTREACH GUIDE During the National Civics Bee Pilot, schools were the most effective channels for recruiting students. The Bee offers Local Competition Partners an opportunity to create or deepen their relationships with schools in their districts, and thereby with students and their parents. OUTREACH STRATEGIES By encouraging participation in the Bee, school leaders are able to increase access to civics curriculum for their students. Some may see an opportunity to attract positive recognition if their students become Finalists or Winners. 1. Identify public, private, and charter schools in your district serving 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Also identify home school networks. Reach out to a diverse student body, including those with and without access to civics education at school. 2. Compile contact information for school administrators (e.g., superintendent, principals, regional / district leaders) and PTA members. 3. Begin identifying schools in August 2023, to secure commitments from participating schools by September 2023.

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Use flyers, emails to parents, blog posts, and in-school announcements to promote the Bee with your students. THE ASK

FINDING PARTNERS • Crowd source ideas from your team and board members. Consider relationships from past events hosted by your team (e.g., school board members). • Use local school district websites or GreatSchools.org to identify public and charter schools in the area. • Inquire about networks of social studies teachers when speaking to school administrators.

HERE’S A TIP: Use the Letter: Educator (Admin) and the Student Flyer when contacting school leaders. Provide interested schools with Letter: Educator (Teacher), Letter: Parents, Student & Parent Guide, and Teacher Guide.

YOUTH GROUP OUTREACH GUIDE

Groups that serve youth during out-of school times provide avenues to reach a diverse set of students, including those who excel in non-academic settings. Local Competition Partners can strengthen their relationships with community leaders by reaching out to local youth-serving organizations. OUTREACH STRATEGIES Youth organizations often provide support and activities for local civic engagement. Participating in the Bee provides an opportunity for communitybased groups to help their members explore active citizenship. 1. Identify youth organizations and community-based organizations in your district. Compile a list of program directors for outreach.

Complement your group’s civic activities by providing support for community youth to enter the Bee. THE ASK

FINDING PARTNERS • Crowd source ideas from your team and board members. Consider relationships from past events hosted by your team (e.g., organization board members). • Contact local churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples that may have youth groups interested in participating. • Inquire about popular after-school programs when speaking to school administrators.

2. Find contacts for local affiliates of national youth organizations, including: • Boys and Girls Clubs of America; Big Brother, Big Sister; 4-H; Kiwanis; Rotary International; Girl Scouts; Boy Scouts; YMCA; Junior Achievement. 3. Begin identifying groups in September 2023, to secure commitments from participating groups by November 2023.

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HERE’S A TIP: Use the Letter: Youth Leader and the Student Flyer when contacting organization leaders. Provide interested schools with Letter: Educator (Teacher), Letter: Parents, Student & Parent Guide, and Teacher Guide.

INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Business Leader (link)

Dear [insert Business Leader name], As a business leader, you understand that our community is built on the foundations of civics. At the [insert State Competition Partner name], we want to help students in our community appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives. The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [STATE] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students in grades six, seven, and eight from across our state will participate in an initial essay round of the competition. The top-performing students in the essay round will be invited to compete in a local in-person quiz event. Within each local competition, the three highest-scoring participants will progress to the National Civics Bee [insert STATE name] State Finals, where they will compete for a range of prizes, including $1,000 cash award for first place. The winner of the State Finals will receive a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the inaugural National Civics Bee championship in the Fall of 2024. The National Civics Bee gives students an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas, and voices about our community. It is also a way to increase their knowledge of civics. We are looking for businesses to sponsor the National Civics Bee [State] State Finals and donate prizes for our Finalists and Winners. [insert specific ask here] Being a sponsor of the National Civics Bee allows your business to support an exciting educational event for your customers, and to demonstrate your commitment to civic engagement in our community. Can we count on your support to sponsor the National Civics Bee for youth in our community? The deadline for students to enter the essay round of the competition is January 8, 2024. The National Civics Bee [STATE] State Finals will be held on [DATE]. I hope we can count on your support for the youth in our community. Sincerely, [insert name]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Educator (Admin) (link)

Dear [insert Superintendent name], Our schools, our town, our community are built on the foundations of civics. We want to help students in our community appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives. The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [LOCATION] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students from across our district are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. A cross-section of community leaders (including government officials, business leaders, and educators) will review each of the 500-word essay submissions. The top 20 students will be selected to move on to the final round of competition: a live quiz event to test their civics knowledge. The finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including $500 cash for the first-place student. The top 3 winners will then have a chance to compete at the State level. [insert any info about local prizes and/or school-based prizes] Can we count on your support to help promote the National Civics Bee with the students in [insert school district]? You can use the attached flyer to send emails to parents, post information on district blog posts, and make in-school announcements to promote the Bee with your students. The Bee gives your students an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas and voices about our community. It is also a way to increase their knowledge of civics. If a student from the [insert school district] is a Finalist or Winner, the [insert school district] will also be receive recognition. The deadline for student essay submissions is January 8, 2024. For more information on the essay topic, competition rules and prizes, and for students to submit essays, visit: [LINK] Sincerely, [insert name]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Educator (Teacher) (link)

Dear Educator, Our town, our community are built on the foundations of civics. We want to help students in our community appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives. The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [LOCATION] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students from across our district are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. A cross-section of community leaders (including government officials, business leaders, and educators) will review each of the 500-word essay submissions. The top 20 students will be selected to move on to the final round of competition: a live quiz event to test their civics knowledge. The finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including $500 cash for the first-place student. The top 3 winners will then have a chance to compete at the State level. [insert any info about local prizes and/or school-based prizes] The Bee gives your students an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas and voices about our community. It is also a way to increase their knowledge of civics. If a student from [insert school] is a Finalist or Winner, [insert school] will also receive recognition. If you would like to support your students in developing their essays, we have developed the Educator Guide with suggested lesson plans on how students can address the essay prompt. The deadline for student essay submissions is January 8, 2024. For more information on the essay topic, competition rules and prizes, and for students to submit essays, visit: [LINK] Please note—When your students submit their essay, they will be required to enter a parent/guardian email and parent/guardian phone number. I hope you will encourage your students to participate in the National Civics Bee. Sincerely, [insert name]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Event Judge (State) (link)

Dear [insert name], The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [LOCATION] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students from across our state submitted a 500-word essay on their ideas for improving our community. The top 20 Finalists at each local competition tested their civics knowledge, and the top 5 Finalists answered follow-up questions about their essays. In the final round of the Event, Event Judges will ask Finalists follow-up questions about their essays. The top 3 Winners from each local competition are now competing at the State level. We are looking for a cross-section of community leaders like yourself (government officials, business and community leaders, and educators) to serve as an Event judge. By being an Event Judge, you’ll play a pivotal role in determining which 3 Finalists advance as State Winners. Can you commit at least 5 hours of your time to judging student responses at a State Event for the National Civics Bee? The event takes place on [insert date]. You will be required to arrive at [insert time]. The event will end at approximately [insert time]. The Bee gives students an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas and voices about our community. Participating as an Event Judge allows you to hear from students directly. I hope you will do us the honor of participating as an Event Judge in the National Civics Bee. Sincerely, [insert name]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Government Official (link)

Dear [insert Government Official name], As a government leader, you understand that our community is built on the foundations of civics. At the [insert State Competition Partner name], we want to help students in our community appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives. The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [STATE] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students in grades six, seven, and eight from across our state will participate in an initial essay round of the competition. The top-performing students in the essay round will be invited to compete in a local in-person quiz event. Within each local competition, the three highest-scoring participants will progress to the National Civics Bee [insert STATE name] State Finals, where they will compete for a range of prizes, including $1,000 cash award for first place. The winner of the State Finals will receive a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the inaugural National Civics Bee championship in the Fall of 2024. The National Civics Bee gives students an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas, and voices about our community. It is also a way to increase their knowledge of civics. We are looking for government leaders like yourself to support the National Civics Bee in [STATE] by writing a promotional blog, posting a short video, or serving as an Event Judge or Speaker. [insert specific ask here] Participating in the National Civics Bee will give you an opportunity to engage directly with students and their ideas for improving our community. The deadline for students to enter the essay round of the competition is January 8, 2024. The National Civics Bee [STATE] State Finals will be held on [DATE]. I hope we can count on your support for the youth in our community. Sincerely, [insert name]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Librarian (link)

Dear [insert Librarian name], Our town, our community are built on the foundations of civics. We want to help students in our community appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives. The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [LOCATION] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students from across our district are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. A cross-section of community leaders (including government officials, business leaders, and educators) will review each of the 500-word essay submissions. The top 20 students will be selected to move on to the final round of competition: a live quiz event to test their civics knowledge. The finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including $500 cash for the first-place student. The top 3 winners will then have a chance to compete at the State level. [insert any info about local prizes] Can we count on your support to help promote the National Civics Bee with youth in our community? You can use the attached Student Flyer and Parent Letter to encourage community youth to enter the Bee. You can also share this exciting opportunity with your visitors, and promote civic engagement. The Bee gives students an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas and voices about our community. It is also a way to increase their knowledge of civics. The deadline for student essay submissions is January 8, 2024. For more information on the essay topic, competition rules and prizes, and for students to submit essays, visit: [LINK] I hope you will encourage community youth to participate in the National Civics Bee. Sincerely, [insert name]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Media Partner (link)

Dear [insert Media Partner name], As a media leader, you understand that our community is built on the foundations of civics. At the [insert State Competition Partner name], we want to help students in our community appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives. The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [STATE] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students in grades six, seven, and eight from across our state will participate in an initial essay round of the competition. The top-performing students in the essay round will be invited to compete in a local in-person quiz event. Within each local competition, the three highest-scoring participants will progress to the National Civics Bee [insert STATE name] State Finals, where they will compete for a range of prizes, including $1,000 cash award for first place. The winner of the State Finals will receive a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the inaugural National Civics Bee championship in the Fall of 2024. The National Civics Bee gives students an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas, and voices about our community. It is also a way to increase their knowledge of civics. We are looking for media organizations like yours to support the National Civics Bee in [location] by using your programs, channels, and PSAs to promote the National Civics Bee and to highlight student Finalists and Winners, and our sponsors. [insert specific ask here] Participating in the National Civics Bee will give you an opportunity to interview participants, community leaders and capture event photos and video. The deadline for students to enter the essay round of the competition is January 8, 2024. The National Civics Bee [STATE] State Finals will be held on [DATE]. I hope we can count on your support for the youth in our community. Sincerely, [insert name]

71 • National Civics Bee Playbook Appendix

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Parent English (link)

Dear Parent, Our town, our community are built on the foundations of civics. We want to help students in our community appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives. The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [LOCATION] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students from across our district are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. A cross-section of community leaders (including government officials, business leaders, and educators) will review each of the 500-word essay submissions. The top 20 students will be selected to move on to the final round of competition: a live quiz event to test their civics knowledge. The finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including $500 cash for the first-place student. The top 3 winners will then have a chance to compete at the State level. [insert any info about local prizes and/or school-based prizes] The Bee gives your children an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas and voices about our community. It is also a way to increase their knowledge of civics. If you would like to support your children in developing their essays, we have developed a Parent Support Guide with on how students can address the essay prompt. The deadline for student essay submissions is January 8, 2024. For more information on the essay topic, competition rules and prizes, and for students to submit essays, visit: [LINK] Please note—When students submit their essay, they will be required to enter a parent/guardian email and parent/guardian phone number. I hope you will encourage your children to participate in the National Civics Bee. Sincerely, [insert name]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Parent Spanish (link)

Estimado padre o madre, Nuestra ciudad y nuestra comunidad están construidas sobre los cimientos del civismo. Queremos ayudar a los estudiantes de nuestra comunidad a apreciar la importancia del civismo en nuestra vida cotidiana. El Concurso Cívico Nacional 2024 es una iniciativa destinada a animar a más jóvenes estadounidenses a participar en actividades cívicas y contribuir a sus comunidades. Organizado en colaboración con el Fidecomiso Cívico de la Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de EE.UU., el concurso de [LUGAR] inspirará a los alumnos de secundaria a estar mejor informados sobre la democracia estadounidense, a participar de forma respetuosa y constructiva en la comunidad y a generar una mayor confianza en los demás y en las instituciones. Los estudiantes de secundaria de todo nuestro distrito están invitados a participar en la primera ronda del concurso de redacción cívica. Un grupo de líderes de la comunidad (incluyendo funcionarios, empresarios y educadores) revisará cada uno de los ensayos de 500 palabras presentados. Los 20 mejores estudiantes serán seleccionados para pasar a la ronda final de la comp tición: un concurso de preguntas y respuestas en vivo para poner a prueba sus conocimientos cívicos. Los finali tas y los mejores ganadores recibirán varios premios, entre ellos $500 en efectivo para el estudiante que gane el primer lugar. Los tres primeros lugares tendrán la oportunidad de competir a nivel estatal. [Inserte cualquier información sobre premios locales y/o premios escolares] El Concurso les da a sus hijos la oportunidad de compartir sus pensamientos, ideas y voces sobre nuestra comunidad. También es una forma de aumentar sus conocimientos de civismo. Si desea apoyar a sus hijos en el desarrollo de sus ensayos, hemos desarrollado una Guía de Apoyo a los Padres con la forma en que los estudiantes pueden abordar el tema del ensayo. La fecha límite para la presentación de los ensayos de los estudiantes es el 8 de enero de 2024. Para obtener más información sobre el tema del ensayo, las normas del concurso y los premios, y para que los estudiantes presenten sus ensayos, visite: [ENLACE] Nota: Cuando los estudiantes envíen su ensayo, se les pedirá que introduzcan un correo electrónico y un número de teléfono de los padres/tutores. Espero que anime a sus hijos a participar en el Concurso Cívico Nacional. Atentamente, [Insertar nombre]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Outreach Letter: Youth Leader (link)

Dear [insert Youth Leader name], Our town, our community are built on the foundations of civics. We want to help students in our community appreciate the importance of civics in our everyday lives. The 2024 National Civics Bee is an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [LOCATION] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. Middle school students from across our district are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. A cross-section of community leaders (including government officials, business leaders, and educators) will review each of the 500-word essay submissions. The top 20 students will be selected to move on to the final round of competition: a live quiz event to test their civics knowledge. The finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including $500 cash for the first-place student. The top 3 winners will then have a chance to compete at the State level. [insert any info about local prizes] Can we count on your support to help promote the National Civics Bee with youth in our community? You can complement your group’s civic activities by providing support for community youth to enter the Bee and explore active citizenship. The Bee gives students an opportunity to share their thoughts, ideas and voices about our community. It is also a way to increase their knowledge of civics. The deadline for student essay submissions is January 8, 2024. For more information on the essay topic, competition rules and prizes, and for students to submit essays, visit: [LINK] I hope you will encourage community youth to participate in the National Civics Bee. Sincerely, [insert name]

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Parental Consent Form English SPONSOR The sponsor of the contest is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 1615 H Street NW, Washington D.C., 20062 (“Sponsor”). The co-sponsor of the contest is [Chamber Name], [Chamber Address] (“Co-Sponsor”). CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE Parent/Guardian of I, hereby consent to my child participating in the National Civics Bee, Live Quiz Event, being held on [event date] at [event time] at [event location, event address].

I understand that participating in the National Civics Bee and Live Quiz Event or submitting an Entry does not create a joint venture, partnership, employment, or agency relation between me and the Sponsor or Co-Sponsor arising from any Entry. I understand that the decisions of the Judges are final and I specifically agree that the decision of the Judges and any decision of Sponsor or Co-Sponsor is not subject to review or appeal in any forum whatsoever, including courts of law. Parent/Guardian Name: Parent/Guardian Signature: Parent/Guardian Email: Parent/Guardian Phone Number: Date:

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Parental Consent Form Spanish Consentimiento del Padre del Finalista PATROCINADOR El patrocinador del concurso es la Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de los EE. UU., 1615 H Street NW, Washington D.C., 20062 (“Patrocinador”). El copatrocinador del concurso es [nombre de la Cámara], [dirección de la Cámara], (“Copatrocinador”). CONSENTIMIENTO PARA PARTICIPAR padre/tutor de , Yo, doy mi consentimiento para que mi hijo o hija participe en el Concurso Cívico Nacional, Concurso en Vivo, que se celebrará el [fecha del evento] a la(s) [hora del evento] en [lugar del evento, dirección del evento]. Entiendo que participar en el Concurso Cívico Nacional y en el Concurso en Vivo o enviar una Inscripción no crea una relación de empresa conjunta, asociación, empleo o agencia entre el Patrocinador o Copatrocinador y yo, derivada de cualquier Inscripción. Entiendo que las decisiones de los Jueces son definiti as y acepto específicame te que la decisión de los Jueces y cualquier decisión del Patrocinador o Copatrocinador no está sujeta a revisión o apelación en ningún foro, incluyendo los tribunales de justicia. Nombre del padre/tutor: Firma del padre/tutor: Dirección de correo electrónico del padre/tutor: Número de teléfono del padre/tutor: Fecha:

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Press Kit Inviting press to your National Civics Bee competition can go a long way in raising awareness of the event and the importance of civics in your community. Before the event, you can share a media advisory with reporters who cover local events and developments in your community to invite them to attend the event in person. The media advisory should be succinct and provide key details about the competition, including time, location, how to register as media, and the contestants. A sample advisory is provided below. You can also create a press kit to share with reporters during and after the competition. The press kit can be in the form of an online page on your website, or it can be printed and distributed to the reporters onsite. The press kit should convey important information about the competition, including key highlights from the event. It also presents a good opportunity to share background information about your organization and the work you do, as well as other multi-media assets that the reporters may want to use in their stories. A sample press release is provided below. For the press kit, you can include: •

Press release with quote from state chamber representative

•

Fact sheet about the competition

•

Bios of the contestants and judges

•

B-roll and/or pictures from the competition

•

National Civics Bee sizzle reel

•

One-pager about the state chamber and its relevant work

•

Relevant social media handles and hashtags

SAMPLE MEDIA ADVISORY [CHAMBER] to Host National Civics Bee Competition in [LOCATION] [CITY, STATE]—On [DATE], the [CHAMBER] will host the 2024 National Civics Bee aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. [INSERT NUMBER] middle-school students from across [LOCATION] will participate in the competition to demonstrate their civics knowledge and discuss how they would solve a problem facing their community.

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More information about the event can be found here: [INSERT URL]. WHO: Include contestants, local chamber representatives, speakers, and high-profile participants and judges WHAT: The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. WHEN: Insert event time and date WHERE: Insert event location RSVP: Credentialed members of the media are invited to attend. To register, please sign up here [LINK]. For questions related to interview opportunities, please email [MEDIA CONTACT EMAIL].

SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE FOR STATE CHAMBERS [STATE CHAMBER] Announces Winner of the National Civics Bee in [LOCATION] [CITY, STATE]—Today the [STATE CHAMBER] hosted the 2024 National Civics Bee, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. [WINNER NAME] from [SCHOOL] was named the winner of the National Civics Bee competition in [LOCATION], organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. [STATE CHAMBER EXECUTIVE QUOTE] “In recent years, Americans’ civics knowledge has fallen significantly, with 53% of adults not being able to name all three branches of government. At the same time, 79% of 8th graders score below proficient in civics,” said [FOUNDATION SPOKESPERSON]. “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.” [INSERT NUMBER] finalists from local competitions across [STATE] advanced to take part in the state-level competition. Students participated in a live quiz event and answered questions from judges to test their civic knowledge. [WINNER NAME] from [SCHOOL] took first place, followed by [FIRST RUNNER-UP] and [SECOND RUNNER-UP] for second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were: [INSERT JUDGES]. [WINNER NAME] impressed the judges with [INCLUDE SPECIFICS ON WHY THE WINNER WON]. For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: [LINK] MEDIA CONTACT [Name, Title, Organization, Email, Phone]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Sample Press Release: State English (link)

[STATE CHAMBER] Launches National Civics Bee [CITY, STATE]—The [STATE CHAMBER] proudly announces the launch of the 2024 National Civics Bee, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in [LOCATION] will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. The [STATE CHAMBER] will host this event on [DATE] at [LOCATION]. Finalists from local competitions across [STATE] will be invited to take part in the state-level competition. Students will participate in a live quiz event and answer questions from judges to test their civic knowledge. The finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including $1,000 cash for the first-place student. The top winner will also be invited to advance to the national round of the competition in Washington, D.C. [STATE CHAMBER EXECUTIVE QUOTE]

For more information on entering the National Civics Bee in [STATE] visit: [LINK]

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Sample Press Release: State Spanish (link)

[CÁMARA DEL ESTADO] Lanza el Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica [CIUDAD, ESTADO]—La [CÁMARA DEL ESTADO] se enorgullece en anunciar el lanzamiento del Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica (National Civics Bee) 2024, una iniciativa destinada a alentar a más jóvenes estadounidenses a interesarse en la educación cívica y contribuir a sus comunidades. El evento está organizado en asociación con The Civic Trust de la Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de EUA; la competencia se realizará en [UBICACIÓN] e inspirará a los estudiantes de secundaria a estar mejor informados sobre la democracia estadounidense, a participar de forma respetuosa y constructiva en la comunidad y a desarrollar una mayor confianza en los demás y en las instituciones La [CÁMARA DEL ESTADO] organizará este evento el [FECHA] en [LUGAR]. Los finali tas de las competencias locales en [ESTADO] serán invitados a participar en la competencia estatal. Los estudiantes participarán en un concurso en vivo y responderán preguntas de los jueces para evaluar su conocimiento cívico. Los finali tas y los ganadores recibirán varios premios, incluyendo $1,000 en efectivo para el estudiante que obtenga el primer lugar. El ganador del primer lugar estará también invitado a pasar a la ronda nacional del concurso en Washington, D.C. [CITA DEL EJECUTIVO DE LA CÁMARA ESTATAL] Para mayor información sobre cómo participar en el Concurso Nacional de Educación Cívica 2024 [ESTADO], visite: [ENLACE]

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Privacy Policy EFFECTIVE: November 13, 2023 The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, together with local and state chambers of commerce are co-sponsors (“Co-Sponsors”) of the Civics Bee Contest (“Contest”). The Co-Sponsors are committed to respecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy describes the personal information we collect, use, and share when you participate in the Civics Bee Contest. The Contest is governed by the Contest Rules. Defined terms not otherwise defined in this Privacy Policy are defined in the Contest Rules.

WHAT PERSONAL INFORMATION WILL WE COLLECT? To participate in the Contest, you must have your parent’s or guardian’s consent to provide your name, zip code, and your parent’s or guardian’s contact information, including their phone number and email. We also ask that you tell us what school you attend and your grade. If you are one of the Winners, we will need to collect additional information from you prior to releasing the cash prize, including a taxpayer identification number for you or your parent or guardian and your complete address.

HOW WILL WE USE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? We will only use your personal information for the purpose of administering and promoting the Contest. This includes contacting you to let you know whether you were chosen as a Finalist. If we use your personal information for other purposes, we will first obtain your consent.

HOW WILL WE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? We may share your information with our vendors who support us in providing the online contest platform. They may not use your information for any other purpose. Your personal information will not be provided to the judges of the Contest. The Co-Sponsors will share your personal information between them only as needed to administer the contest, such as contacting you to let you know whether you were selected as a Finalist. If you are one of the Winners of a cash prize, we will need to share your personal information with the government for tax reasons.

HOW DO WE RESPECT CHILDREN’S PRIVACY? All children under the age of 13 must have their parent’s or guardian’s consent to participate in the Contest. If we need to communicate with the participant, we will contact the parent or guardian. If a parent or guardian believes that their child has provided us with information without their consent, please contact us and we will delete such information as soon as reasonably possible.

HOW CAN I CONTACT YOU? If you have any questions, please contact us at civictrust@uschamber.com.

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Publicity Release SPONSOR The sponsor of the contest is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 1615 H Street NW, Washington D.C., 20062 (“Sponsor”). The co-sponsor of the contest is [Chamber Name, Chamber Address] (“Co-Sponsor”). On behalf of the participant, you as the parent/guardian hereby grant permission for the Sponsor or Co-Sponsor or its agents to photograph, film and record the participant, and to use his/her name, city, and state, likeness, photograph, voice, biographical information, and/or any statements made by him/her regarding the Contest or its sponsors for purposes of publicity or promotion without additional financial or other compensation. You agree to grant the Sponsor and Co-Sponsor a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide license to edit, telecast, exhibit, rerun, reproduce, use, syndicate, license, print, distribute, and otherwise exploit any items (including any photos, videos, audio, or written material) submitted as part of your child’s contest entry, or any portion thereof, in any manner, and in any and all formats and media now known or hereafter devised, without payment to you or any third party. You represent and warrant that you are the parent or legal guardian of the minor and provide your express consent for your child to appear in any materials submitted in the Contest or related event or ceremony, and you have the full legal right, power, and authority to grant to the Sponsor and Co-Sponsor this license. Finalist Name: Parent/Guardian Name: Parent/Guardian Signature: Date:

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Comunicado de Prensa Del Finalista Spanish (nuevo encabezado) PATROCINADOR El patrocinador del concurso es la Fundación de la Cámara de Comercio de los EE.UU., 1615 H Street NW, Washington D.C., 20062 (“Patrocinador”). El copatrocinador del concurso es [Dirección de la Cámara], (“Copatrocinador”). En nombre del participante, usted como padre/tutor autoriza al Patrocinador o Copatrocinador o a sus agentes para fotografiar, filmar y grabar al participante, y para utilizar su nombre, ciudad y estado, imagen, fotografía, voz, información biográfica y/o cualquier declaración realizada por él/ella en relación con el Concurso o sus patrocinadores con fines publicitarios o promocionales sin compensación económica adicional o de otro tipo. Usted acepta concederle al Patrocinador y al Copatrocinador una licencia no exclusiva, perpetua y mundial para editar, retransmitir, exhibir, volver a ejecutar, reproducir, utilizar, sindicar, conceder licencias, imprimir, distribuir y explotar de cualquier otro modo cualquier elemento (incluyendo fotos, videos, audio o material escrito) presentado como parte de la participación de su hijo en el concurso, o cualquier parte de la misma, de cualquier modo y en todos los formatos y medios conocidos en la actualidad o que se conciban en el futuro, sin pago alguno a usted o a terceros. Usted declara y garantiza que es el padre, la madre o el tutor legal del menor y proporciona su consentimiento expreso para que su hijo aparezca en cualquier material presentado en el Concurso o evento o ceremonia relacionados, y que tiene pleno derecho legal, poder y autoridad para concederles esta licencia al Patrocinador y Copatrocinador. Nombre del finalista: Nombre del padre/tutor: Firma del padre/tutor: Fecha:

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Record Feedback Collecting feedback on various aspects of the National Civics Bee, such as the concept, the process, the materials, the support, and the event, will inform future Bees and other student-focused programs. Use the chart below or create a spreadsheet to fill in the feedback you collect on what worked—and didn’t work—for different audiences.

Audience

What Worked?

Students (Submissions) Schools Youth Groups Libraries Local Businesses Media Partners Government Officials Essay Judges Event Judges Event Attendees

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What Didn’t Work?

Social Media Guidelines OVERVIEW Using social media to market and promote the National Civics Bee is essential, from your first announcement to attracting sponsors, to updating media and building excitement as you host the competition and select a winner. While we continue developing and piloting this program, we ask that you use your existing local and state chamber channels and networks to promote this on social media. Please do not create new social media accounts for your local competition and know that we are considering this strategy for the future. This approach will be identical across all competitions, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation social media too. Throughout the different phases of the competition, our team will provide additional social media content, including graphics and suggested copy. In the meantime, please feel free to reach out to our team with any questions or feedback. Email Dionna Stokes at dstokes@uschamber.com.

TIPS

SAMPLES

• Follow and tag @USCCFoundation on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram in order to see our updates and notify our team when you post content we should amplify.

• We are looking forward to hosting the #NationalCivicsBee right here, together with @USCCFoundation! Middle school students can submit an essay about civics and win prizes. Here’s how: [link]

• Use our primary hashtag #NationalCivicsBee for as much content as possible to build engagement. • Consider using secondary hashtags as well like #CivicsBuzz or one specific to your local competition like #[insert local town, city, or state]CivicPride.

• Hey, 6th, 7th, and 8th graders: What does civics mean to you? Write an essay for the #NationalCivicsBee, and you may be chosen to compete and win cash prizes. Learn more: [link] • Download graphics here and stay tuned for more throughout planning and execution of the National Civics Bee.

STUDENTS Do not directly reference minors under the age of 13 by name or other identifying information in social media posts. Do not ask students to share anything personal on social media using their personal information. Keep messaging generic with phrases like “calling all middle school students” or “6th, 7th, and 8th graders,” and focus your efforts on teachers, parents, and other adults who are community stakeholders and will encourage students to participate. When the time comes to celebrate finalists or share stories from the competition, do not use full names, specific school details, or other personal information that should be protected.

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STUDENT & PARENTGUIDE Building community takes all of us! By volunteering our time or talents with a volunteer organization, starting a new business to provide a needed service, asking the local government to take action to deal with an issue, or bringing attention to a problem in our community, it is through our actions that we can work to support one another. This year’s National Civics Bee asks you how you can make a difference in your community! Identify a problem, challenge, or opportunity in your local community. What can you do to contribute to its improvement based on Founding principles and civic virtues? Founding principles are an important starting point for solutions to problems. They provide us with a framework for understanding how we can best work together in a free community. We call them Founding principles because they are built into the ideas of the American Founding. These core ideas of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution help guide us today. Examples include natural/inalienable rights, consent of the governed, rule of Law, federalism, and private property.

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Civic virtues go hand in hand with Founding principles. They are habits that help us ensure we are acting in the best interest of the community. They also help guide us because the more we practice civic virtue, the more we uphold individual freedom and the common good. Examples include: humility, integrity, moderation, respect, and responsibility. More information about Founding principles and civic virtues can be found here. Is there something in your community that you would like to change? Or would you like to provide a service currently missing from your community? Or would you like to work to get more support from your community for an organization or group that you belong to? Think about the communities you might belong to: schools, religious organizations, charity groups, towns, states, or neighborhoods. All these groups require the work of individuals to support them so that they can do their essential work. By practicing civic virtue and using your talents, you can solve a problem you feel passionate about and create something that is beautiful and necessary in making your community better. Let us know how you can make a difference!

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Use the following questions to help write your response to the prompt: Graphic Organizer

Prompts

Supporting Questions

What way can you contribute to your community? How might others view this problem or opportunity differently?

Do you have skills or talents that can contribute to your community? Do you have a passion you can share? Are there resources in your community you can help organize?

What are the ways you can approach this issue?

Can you start a business? Organize an event? Coordinate with volunteer organizations or your local government? Start a fundraiser?

What is your idea or recommendation?

State your idea clearly and how you hope to bring it to life.

What sources provide supporting evidence or examples for your idea or recommendation?

How do you know this is an issue for your community? What information can help you define the issue? What information tells you that your solution may work?

How might members of your community or neighborhood bring your idea or recommendation to life?

Who can you connect with in your community? Business leaders? Members of government? Members of voluntary associations like Kiwanis, Rotary Club, Chambers of Commerce, faith groups, or non-profit organizations?

Who might oppose your idea? How might you respond?

Will your idea face opposition? Will it cost your community money or resources? Are there competing organizations or ideas for solving this issue?

Students should also consider how at least one of the following principles and civic virtues in their response: We’ve created this graphic organizer to help think through which are best to include: Graphic Organizer

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES

1. Natural/Inalienable Rights • Definition—Rights which belong to humans by nature which cannot be taken away. Examples are life, liberty, and property. • Consider this—Does your solution relate to injustices in your community? Are people being denied equality? • Examples—A project that secures or recognizes the fundamental rights of others in your community. This could be a project that works toward achieving greater equality or the securing of someone’s individual property.

2. Consent of the Governed • Definition—The power of government comes from the people. • Consider this—Will your solution need to get approval from your community? • Examples—Consulting with a local chamber of commerce to get input from the business community, meeting with a local neighborhood group to get their support for your idea, organizing fellow students or voters to make sure your idea is heard.

3. Rule of Law • Definition—Government and citizens all abide by the same laws regardless of political power. Those laws must be stable and justly applied. • Consider this—Will your solution be fair and equally applied in the community? Are there government processes you will need to follow?

4. Federalism • Definition—The national and state governments have a balance of separate and shared powers. The people delegate certain powers to the national government, while the states retain other powers; and the people retain all powers not delegated to the governing bodies. • Consider this—If you are working with the government, which level is most appropriate? The national government? The state? Your town or city? • Examples—Working with your state legislature to pass a law because your town does not have the authority, speaking to your local town officials about a city ordinance that impacts your community organization, working with a local court to increase awareness of a legal process.

5. Private Property • Definition—The natural right of all individuals to create, obtain, and control their possessions, beliefs, faculties, and opinions as well as the fruits of their labor • Consider this—will your solution require individuals to part with their property (like their money), or lend their property to the community (like by offering rental space)? • Examples—People will pay you for a service you plan to provide, people will need to donate their money to support your cause, Business or business leaders will need to donate time, money, or space to support your initiative.

• Examples—Working with a local town council to change a city ordinance, working with a local parks department to change a policy, filing a ormal petition, or following a formal government process.

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II. CIVIC VIRTUES 1. Humility • Definition—A recognition that one’s ignorance is far greater than one’s knowledge. Putting others ahead of ourselves in thought, word, and deed. • Consider this—Will you need to listen to community members to find a solution? • Examples—Hold a listening session to hear from members of the community you are working with. Learn a skill or the history of the community that your solution will impact.

2. Integrity • Definition—To tell the truth, expose untruths, and keep one’s promises. • Consider this—How will you make sure to follow through on the solution you commit to? • Examples—Create a realistic schedule for completing your solution. Make a public statement or message that acts as a commitment for others to hold you accountable.

3. Moderation • Definition—The avoidance of excess or extremes. • Consider this—How can you ensure your goals are realistic and achievable? • Examples—Starting with a small solution that addresses a single problem while leaving room for it to grow. Make a set of goals you think you can reach within three to six months.

4. Respect • Definition—Regard for and defending the equal rights and inherent dignity of all human beings, including oneself. • Consider this—How will your solution support individuals and work well with other people in the community? • Examples—Telling the stories of your community members with your project. Highlight how your contribution is part of a longer history of contributions by others. Be grateful for the help others give you or the knowledge they share.

5. Responsibility • Definition—Acting on good judgement about what is right or wrong even when it is not popular. Individuals must take care of themselves, their families, and their fellow community members. • Consider this—Why do you think your solution is necessary? Why is it important that YOU are the one that works towards this solution? • Examples—Make clear how you have benefi ed from your community and why you wish to give back. Highlight what inspired you to act and why.

Essays will be evaluated by a panel of judges based on how well the students: • Demonstrate an understanding of civics • Acknowledge and address opposing points of view • Acknowledge and address at least one Founding Principle and one Civic Virtue • Use primary sources, like newspapers, data, historical documents, images, or other documents that relate to your idea. • Clearly describe an idea that is innovative or new to them

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ESSAY WRITING GUIDANCE Ideal responses will: • Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner • Use cited facts and arguments when appropriate to support your answers • Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors • Address diverse viewpoints in a respectful manner • Organize your answer in a manner that fows logically and reads clearly

While you are writing: • Stay focused and minimize distractions. • Write however you feel most comfortable— using a pen and paper, or a computer. • Let your topic guide your structure. Consider including an introductory paragraph, three supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion. • Stay on track: if you find yourself getting off the topic, go back and revise. • Remember all writing is re-writing.

After you write, ask yourself: Have I answered all aspects of the question? • Is it clear what I am discussing? • Have I stated an opinion when asked for one? • Have I provided examples where asked? • Have I said what I wanted to say? Is my essay well-written? • Have I used paragraphs? • Do all my paragraphs have a topic sentence? • Do I fully develop one idea per paragraph? Is my writing correct? • Have I checked for spelling errors myself, without relying on spell-check? • Have I checked for grammar errors without relying on a grammar checker? • Have I checked my facts: dates, document titles, names, etc.?

Other ideas: • Try reading your essay aloud to a family member. Does it sound like it fows easily? Can your audience member summarize your essay back to you in one or two sentences? (If they can’t, try going back and clarifying your ideas.) • Try putting your essay down for a day or two and coming back to it and re-reading it. Do you notice anything you’d like to change or add?

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THIS IS A SAMPLE. Student Flyer (link)

[CHAMBER LOGO]

$500

$1,000

$250

$500

$125

$250

State Finalists who advance to the national competition will compete for prizes worth more than $50,000.

[CHAMBER WEBSITE URL]

[U.S. TIMEZONE] [CHAMBER NAME] [Address Line 1] [Address Line 2] [email address]

[CHAMBER LOGO]

The National Civics Bee is presented by the [CHAMBER NAME], with support from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

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EMCEE

SUPPORT GUIDE Once you have confirmed your Emcee, ensure they receive the Code of Conduct and that they sign and return the Emcee Commitment Letter. Alternate Emcees should do the same. SUPPORT STRATEGIES Schedule a briefing call with the committed Emcee at least 2 weeks before the Local Event. The Emcee briefing and Judge briefing may be combined. Discuss the following items: 1. Review the Emcee Commitment Letter and the Code of Conduct. Emphasize the importance of representing the Bee in a positive way, using a nonpartisan approach. 2. Review your Event Program and a script including Local Finalist names and Speaker bios. Share the Study Guide to show the event preparation guidance given to Local Finalists. 3. Review the Quiz Platform Guide, including how to advance each question and how to interpret scores. 4. Hold a debrief call after the Local Event to collect any feedback.

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KEY POINTS • The Emcee can refer to the Quiz Platform Guide for technical assistance with executing the Quiz. • The Emcee must read the rules out loud at the start of the competition and explain the tie-breaking process. • Before each Round, Emcees should ask if Local Finalists are ready to begin and if their devices are working.

HERE’S A TIP: Round 1 will begin with an easy question that all participants should get correctly. This is a good time to make sure all devices are working and students’ nerves are calmed.

EVENT JUDGE SUPPORT GUIDE

Once you have confirmed your Event Judges, ensure each judge receives the Code of Conduct and signs and returns the Event Judge Commitment Letter. Alternate judges should do the same. SUPPORT STRATEGIES Schedule a briefing call with all committed judges at least 2 weeks before the State Event. The Emcee briefing and Judge briefing may be combined. Discuss the following items: 1. Review the Event Judge Commitment Letter and the Code of Conduct. Emphasize the importance of being fair and impartial. 2. Review the Event Judging Rubric and your Event Program. Share the Study Guide to show the event preparation guidance given to Local Finalists. 3. Review the judging process, including how each State Finalist will be assigned a judge to ask follow-up questions about their essay. 4. Hold a debrief call after the State Event to collect any feedback.

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HERE’S A TIP: The Event requires an odd number of Judges (either 3 judges or 5 judges) to avoid ties. Prepare a slate of alternate judges in case an Event Judge becomes unavailable.

TEACHER GUIDE

Building community takes all of us! By volunteering our time or talents with a volunteer organization, starting a new business to provide a needed service, asking the local government to take action to deal with an issue, or bringing attention to a problem in our community, it is through our actions that we can work to support one another. This year’s National Civics Bee asks you how you can make a difference in your community! Identify a problem, challenge, or opportunity in your local community. What can you do to contribute to its improvement based on Founding principles and civic virtues? Founding principles are an important starting point for solutions to problems. They provide us with a framework for understanding how we can best work together in a free community. We call them Founding principles because they are built into the ideas of the American Founding. These core ideas of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution help guide us today. Examples include natural/inalienable rights, consent of the governed, rule of law, federalism, and private property.

94 • National Civics Bee Playbook

Civic virtues go hand in hand with Founding principles. They are habits that help us ensure we are acting in the best interest of the community. They also help guide us because the more we practice civic virtue, the more we uphold individual freedom and the common good. Examples include: humility, integrity, moderation, respect, and responsibility. More information about Founding principles and civic virtues can be found here. Is there something in your community that you would like to change? Or would you like to provide a service currently missing from your community? Or would you like to work to get more support from your community for an organization or group that you belong to? Think about the communities you might belong to: schools, religious organizations, charitable groups, towns, states, or neighborhoods. All these groups require the work of individuals to support them so that they can do their essential work. By practicing civic virtue and using your talents, you can solve a problem you feel passionate about and create something that is beautiful and necessary in making our community better. Let us know how you can make a difference!

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Use the following questions to help write your response to the prompt:

Prompts

Supporting Questions

What way can you contribute to your community? How might others view this problem or opportunity differently?

MyImpact Challenge: Identifying Your Problem Bill of Rights Institute

What are the ways you can approach this issue?

Citizen Me iCivics

https://billofrightsinstitute.org/lessons/micidentifying-your-problem

https://www.icivics.org/teachers/lesson-plans/ citizen-me What is your idea or recommendation?

We the People: Project Citizen Center for Civic Education https://www.civiced.org/lessons/we-the-peopleproject-citizen

What sources provide supporting evidence or examples for your idea or recommendation?

We the Civics Kids National Constitution Center https://constitutioncenter.org/learn/ educational-resources/we-the-civics-kids

How might members of your community or neighborhood bring your idea or recommendation to life? Who might oppose your idea? How might you respond?

Students should include at least one of the following principles and one of the civic virtues in their response. We’ve created this graphic organizer to help think through which are best to include: Graphic Organizer

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FOUNDING PRINCIPLES

3. Rule of Law • Definition—Government and citizens all abide by the same laws regardless of political power. Those laws must be stable and justly applied.

4. Separation of Powers • Definition—Each division of government exercises distinct powers to carry out its functions and to prevent the accumulation of power. • Consider this—If you think the government can help you, which branch should you work with to make your contribution? • Examples—Your idea will require action from your mayor or organization leader, your idea will require a new policy, regulation, or legislation passed by your town council or community body, your idea will require you to work with a law enforcement.

5. Federalism • Definition—The national and state governments have a balance of separate and shared powers. The people delegate certain powers to the national government, while the states retain other powers; and the people retain all powers not delegated to the governing bodies. • Consider this—If you are working with the government, which level is most appropriate? The National government? The state? Your town or city? • Examples—Working with your State legislature to pass a law because your town does not have the authority, speaking to your local town officials about a city ordinance that impacts your community organization, working with a local court to increase awareness of a legal process.

• Consider this—Will your solution be fair and equally applied in the community? Are there government processes you will need to follow? • Examples—Working with a local town council to change a city ordinance, working with a local parks department to change a policy, filing a formal petition, or following a formal government process.

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6. Private Property

3. Moderation

• Definition—The natural right of all individuals to create, obtain, and control their possessions, beliefs, faculties, and opinions as well as the fruits of their labor.

• Definition—The avoidance of excess or extremes.

• Consider this—Will your solution require individuals to part with their property (like their money), or lend their property to the community (like by offering rental space)?

• Examples—Starting with a small solution that addresses a single problem while leaving room for it to grow. Make a set of goals you think you can reach within three to six months.

• Examples—People will pay you for a service you plan to provide. People will need to donate their money to support your cause. Business or business leaders will need to donate time, money, or space to support your initiative.

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• Consider this—How can you ensure your goals are realistic and achievable?

5. Responsibility • Definition—Acting on good judgement about what is right or wrong even when it is not popular. Individuals must take care of themselves, their families, and their fellow community members. • Consider this—Why do you think your solution is necessary? Why is it important that YOU are the one that works towards this solution? • Examples—Make clear how you have benefited from your community and why you wish to give back. Highlight what inspired you to act and why.

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Essays will be evaluated by a panel of judges based on how well the students:

After you write, ask yourself: Have I answered all aspects of the question?

• Demonstrate an understanding of civics.

• Is it clear what I am discussing?

• Acknowledge and address opposing points of view.

• Have I stated an opinion when asked for one?

• Acknowledge and address at least one Founding Principle and one Civic Virtue.

• Have I provided examples where asked?

• Use primary sources, like newspapers, data, historical documents, images, or other documents that relate to your idea. • Clearly describe an idea that is innovative or new to them.

ESSAY WRITING GUIDANCE • Educators can support their students during the essay writing process by guiding them through the following suggestions:

Ideal responses: • Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner. • Use cited facts and arguments when appropriate to support their answers. • Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors. • Address diverse viewpoints in a respectful manner. • Organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly.

• Have I said what I wanted to say? Is my essay well-written? • Have I used paragraphs? • Do all my paragraphs have a topic sentence? • Do I fully develop one idea per paragraph? Is my writing correct? • Have I checked for spelling errors myself, without relying on spell-check? • Have I checked for grammar errors without relying on a grammar checker? • Have I checked my facts: dates, document titles, names, etc.?

Other ideas: • Try reading your essay aloud to a family member. Does it sound like it flows easily? Can your audience member summarize your essay back to you in one or two sentences? (If they can’t, try going back and clarifying your ideas.) • Try putting your essay down for a day or two and coming back to it and re-reading it. Do you notice anything you’d like to change or add?

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Winners Letter: State English (link)

[DATE] Dear Parent / Guardian, Congratulations on your child being a Winner in the state competition of the National Civics Bee hosted by the [STATE CHAMBER of COMMERCE]! The goal of the National Civics Bee is to help students like yours increase their knowledge of civics and citizenship. As a Winner, your child demonstrated their passion for a civic problem in their community through their essay submission and their knowledge of civic principles through the three rounds of the National Civics Bee competition. This is truly a moment to be proud of all that your child has accomplished. In order to claim your child’s cash prize, you must fill out the attached W-9 form and submit the W-9 along with the Winner Information Form attached to the [STATE CHAMBER]. You can choose to email or mail your form to the addresses noted below. Once again, congratulations on your child being a Winner! (For 1st-place winner add: We wish your student best of luck as they advance to the national round of the competition.)

Sincerely, [NAME(S)] [STATE CHAMBER] Mailing Address: Email:

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INSERT YOUR LETTERHEAD HERE Winners Letter: State Spanish (link)

Ganador—Carta a los padres [FECHA] Estimado padre/tutor, ¡Felicitaciones por el triunfo de su hijo o hija en la competencia local del Concurso Cívico Nacional organizado por la [CÁMARA DE COMERCIO LOCAL]! El objetivo del Concurso Cívico es ayudar a estudiantes como el suyo a aumentar sus conocimientos sobre civismo y ciudadanía. Como ganador, su hijo o hija demostró su pasión por un problema cívico de su comunidad a través de su redacción, y su conocimiento de los principios cívicos a través de las tres rondas del Concurso Cívico. Este es realmente uno de esos momentos en los que debe estar orgulloso de todo lo que su hijo o hija ha logrado. Para reclamar el premio en efectivo de su hijo o hija, debe llenar el formulario W-9 adjunto y enviarlo junto con el Formulario de Información del Ganador adjunto a la [CÁMARA DE COMERCIO LOCAL]. Puede optar por enviar el formulario por correo electrónico o por correo postal a las direcciones indicadas a continuación. ¡Felicitaciones por el triunfo de su hijo o hija y mucha suerte en el concurso estatal! Atentamente, [NOMBRE(S)] [CÁMARA LOCAL] Dirección postal: Email:

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