Middle school students from across the Yampa Valley competed in the 2025 National Civics Bee regional competition on Wednesday at STARS Ranch, with three victorious Steamboat Springs Middle School students advancing to the state-level competition.

Hosted by the Craig Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Colorado Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Daniels Fund and the Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, nine students from Routt and Moffat counties participated in a live quiz event, answering questions to test their civic knowledge.

To qualify for the competition, students submitted a detailed essay on an issue or topic they are passionate about and ideas on how to locally address the issue and spark change.

After two rounds of quiz questions, five finalists stood before the panel of judges comprised of Routt County Commissioner Sonja Macys, Steamboat Springs City Council member Joella West and Craig City Council member Randy Looper. The finalists then answered questions about their essays and plan for change.

After the Q&A session, three students from Steamboat Springs Middle School were chosen to advance to the state-level competition in Denver, which is set for May 30.

First place and a $500 prize went to sixth-grader Emma Swanson for her essay on bullying in the workplace.

Seventh-grader Ellory Dale won second place for her passion for educating the community about civics and won $250.

Third place and $125 was awarded to sixth-grader Violet Bock for her position on water conservation in the Yampa Valley.

“The Colorado Civics Bee is a great opportunity for our local students to showcase their knowledge, critical thinking and leadership skills,” said Kirstie McPherson, president of the Craig Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, in a statement. “Engaging young minds in civic education helps build a stronger community and future, which is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. We’re proud as the Craig Chamber to support this initiative and celebrate the young leaders of Moffat and Routt County.”

Winners of the state competition will advance to the National Civics Bee, held in the fall in Washington, D.C. 

State competition winners will also receive cash prizes, including $1,000 for first place. The national champion will be awarded $100,000.

“We’re proud to continue working with our local chamber partners for the third consecutive year, reinforcing our commitment to fostering active participation in government and democracy among young Coloradans,” said Colorado Chamber President and CEO Loren Furman in a statement. “Investing in our future means investing in civic education, and it’s inspiring to see this program continue to grow every year. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to participate in our democracy, we’re building a brighter future for our state and nation.”