Mason City Students Shine at National Civics Bee Regional Competition

MASON CITY, Iowa — Middle school students from across the region showcased their civic knowledge and community-focused ideas during the 2026 National Civics Bee regional competition, hosted by the Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce.

The annual event, organized in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, aims to encourage young Americans to engage in civics and play an active role in their communities. The nonpartisan competition challenges students to expand their civic knowledge while developing ideas to address real-world issues.

Students from around the country first submitted essays focused on challenges facing their communities. A panel of judges then selected top participants to compete in the Mason City regional event, which featured two rounds of civics-based quiz questions followed by a question-and-answer session.

Ellie K of John Adams Middle School earned first place in this year’s competition. Matthew P finished second, while Sophia H placed third.

Judges for the event included Mason City Public Works Director Jim Collins, Visit Mason City and Main Street Mason City Executive Director Lindsey James, and former longtime Mason City Mayor Bill Schickel.

The finalists impressed judges with thoughtful proposals addressing local concerns, including expanding access to arts education, improving water quality and recreational opportunities in local waterways, and finding solutions to address stray animal populations.

“This is our fifth year hosting the National Civics Bee regional competition, and every year I am inspired by how our young people think critically about the world around them,” said Colleen Frein, President and CEO of the Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce. “These students are demonstrating the kind of leadership our region and country need.”

The first-place winner received a $500 cash prize and will advance to the state competition hosted by the Iowa Chamber Alliance. The state finals are scheduled for June 30 at Drake University.

Top performers at the state level will compete for additional prizes, with the first-place winner advancing to the National Civics Bee Championship in Washington, D.C., later this year. At the national level, students will compete for top awards, including a grand prize contribution of $100,000 toward a 529 education savings plan.

“It was truly amazing for people to appreciate my ideas and for all my hard work to pay off,” said Ellie K. “To see how far I’ve come from last year to this year and how far I can push myself is incredible.”