Business organizations in northwest Louisiana are expanding participation in the 2026 National Civics Bee, with the Bossier Chamber of Commerce completing its regional competition and the Greater Shreveport Chamber preparing to host its first-ever event in neighboring Caddo Parish.
The National Civics Bee, organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is a nationwide nonpartisan civics competition designed to increase civic knowledge and engagement among middle school students.
In Bossier City, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2026 regional competition with support from presenting sponsor Bossier Parish Community College. Students submitted essays identifying issues in their communities and proposing solutions rooted in civic participation.
Kamilya W. of Elm Grove Middle School won first place in the Bossier competition, followed by Cecelia R. and Adrian F. in second and third place. The live event featured civics quiz rounds and question-and-answer sessions with judges Dr. Edward Ragan, Chris Smith and Heather Middlebrooks.
“We are so proud of our Bossier Parish middle school students,” said Lisa Johnson, president and chief executive officer of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a privilege to host this event that encourages our youth to think about the betterment of our community and how they can actively play a role in it.”
Hilary Crow, vice president of civics for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, said the competition highlights civic engagement and leadership among students nationwide.
“Each year, the National Civics Bee reminds us how much promise and talent exists in communities across the country. Students step up with thoughtful solutions, bold ideas, and a willingness to participate—exactly the qualities our democracy and workforce need,” Crow said.
The Bossier regional winner received a $500 cash prize and advanced to the Louisiana state competition, where top participants can win prizes of up to $1,000. The state champion will advance to the National Civics Bee Championship in Washington, D.C., where the top national prize is a $100,000 contribution to a 529 education savings plan.
Meanwhile, the Greater Shreveport Chamber is preparing to host its inaugural National Civics Bee regional competition on May 19 at Louisiana State University Shreveport.
More than 100 middle school students from across Caddo Parish submitted essays for the inaugural event, with 20 finalists advancing to the live competition. Organizers said students will demonstrate civics knowledge and present proposals aimed at improving their communities.
The Shreveport event will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the university’s University Center Theater and will include student finalists, chamber leadership, university representatives and community judges.
Both regional competitions serve as qualifying events for the Louisiana State Civics Bee finals, which will be hosted June 27 by the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Foundation at LSU Shreveport’s University Center Theatre.