Idaho Falls to be site of first civics bee in state

As part of Idaho‘s growing focus on civic education and leadership development, a different kind of bee is being planned by local, state and national organizations.

The National Civic Bee’s Idaho Statewide Competition is slated for May 29, 2026, at the Melaleuca Global Headquarters in Idaho Falls, with a first prize of a $5,000 donation up for grabs and the possibility of $100,000 contribution to a 529 education savings plan.

The bee, which is now in all 50 states, according to a release, is focused on helping middle school students to have a better understanding of the workings of government and how people can be an active part of the process. The competition is open to all students in sixth through eighth grades at public, private, charter or home schools.

Melaleuca: The Wellness Company and the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce are the event’s co-hosts, and are partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Idaho State Department of Education and others.

Students will begin the competition with a written essay which will center on describing a problem in the community and a solution each participant has thought of. Twenty students will be selected from those essays and will compete in the live statewide event, being quizzed on their civics knowledge.

“America didn’t happen by accident. It works because generations before us believed in freedom, hard work, and the power of free enterprise, and they sacrificed dearly to protect those ideals,” said Frank VanderSloot, the executive chairman of Melaleuca and a U.S. Chamber board member for more than 30 years. “Those principles have lifted more people out of poverty and created more opportunities than any other system in history. The National Civics Bee helps young people understand why America works and why it’s worth defending. At a time when so many voices are tearing down this country, our kids need to know the truth about what makes America strong, good, and free.”

The winner of the statewide competition will secure a $5,000 donation for his or her school, and should that student win the national competition in Washington, D.C., a $100,000 contribution will be made to the child’s 529 education savings plan.

“The National Civics Bee is exactly the kind of program we want for Idaho students,” said Debbie Critchfield, superintendent of public instruction. “As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, there’s never been a better time to strengthen civics education and remind our students what makes America work. This program gives middle schoolers a fun and meaningful way to learn about government, explore community issues, and discover how they can make a difference. I’m especially grateful to see so many business leaders champion this initiative. When education and the business community come together, we inspire the next generation to lead with knowledge, service, and pride in our country.”

Applications are now open and students can sign up from now until Feb. 3, 2026, at idahofallschamber.com/national-civics-bee-idaho.

“When students understand how our system works, they’re better equipped to lead, innovate, and serve for Idaho’s future ahead,” said Paul Baker, CEO of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce.