The YMCA of Central New Mexico/New Mexico YMCA Youth and Government program is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a nonpartisan civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the National Civics Bee National Championship in Fall 2026.

New Mexico YMCA Youth and Government is participating in the National Civics Bee 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. This program complements the model government programs which we offer to 6th-12th grade students in New Mexico. Through the Bee and other Youth and Government programming, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in New Mexico and celebrating our civic pride.

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in New Mexico with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate in their state. All applications must be submitted by February 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org (http://www.nationalcivicsbee.org)for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources. SUBMISSIONS NOW CLOSED FOR 2026.

·      Educator Toolkit(https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Educator-Toolkit.pdf) ·      Essay Application Guide(https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/student-essay-guide/) ·      National Civics Bee Highlights Video(https://youtu.be/lQdMbyBUttc?si=adOM0fyyD1sq5_MZ) ·      National Civics Bee Website(http://www.nationalcivicsbee.org/) ·      Student Flyer(https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2025-Student-Flyer-New.pdf) ·      2026 National Civics Bee Contest Rules – Essay Round(https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Essay-Round-Rules_Digital-1.pdf) ·      New Mexico State Civics Bee Website(https://sites.google.com/view/ncb-nm/home?pli=1)

·      Saturday May 9, 2026 ·      10 AM - 12 PM (Check-in time: 9:30 AM) Lunch for participants to follow event ·      APS Berna Facio Professional Development Center 3315 Louisiana Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110 ·      1st Place: $500 ·      2nd Place: $250 ·      3rd Place: $125

Are you interested in showcasing your company's commitment to developing​ active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact Hannah Wood at nmyag@ymcacnm.org.(mailto:nmyag@ymcacnm.org)

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Hannah Wood at nmyag@ymcacnm.org.(mailto:nmyag@ymcacnm.org)