The Clayton Chamber of Commerce recently hosted the regional stage of the 2026 National Civics Bee in Clayton, NC, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle schoolers that increases civic knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities.
“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. We’re proud to support a program that strengthens civic knowledge and skills for all young people and helps build the foundation for a stronger future.” said Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Students across the country submitted essays on issues in their communities, which were then reviewed by a distinguished panel of judges. Top students were selected to compete in the Clayton Chamber of Commerce’s Regional Competition: an in-person, live event featuring two rounds of civics quiz questions followed by a Q&A in which students discussed their proposals for improving their communities.
Rachel Derege from McGee’s Crossroads Middle School took first place, followed by Daralynn Chatham of McGee’s Crossroads Middle School in second place and Madilyn Carroll of Woodington Middle School in third place. The judges for this year’s competition were: Clayton Rotary Club member Tom Colclough, Austin Dickens of presenting sponsor Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q, former educator Angela Fanney, Mayor of Clayton Jody McLeod, and former educator, principal, and ECU professor Dr. Linda Whitley. The top three finalists impressed the judges with their eloquent pitch delivery, thorough responses, and enthusiasm for bringing change and improvement to their communities.
“We were honored to be selected as one of the first regional hosts in North Carolina for the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s Civics Bee,” said Dana Wooten, President and CEO of the Clayton Chamber of Commerce. “This initiative is an exciting opportunity to spark civic engagement in our middle school students and help them understand the vital role they play in shaping their communities and our democracy. By encouraging students to learn about our nation’s history, government, and civic responsibilities, we are investing in the future leaders of Johnston County and beyond.”
The first-place winner received a $500 cash prize and will advance to the state competition hosted by NC State University along with other top finalists. The top state winners will receive various prizes, up to $1,000. The state’s first-place winner will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in the Fall of 2026, where they can win a grand prize of a $100,000 contribution to a 529 plan. The second-place finalist will receive $25,000, and the third-place National finalist will receive $15,000.
