Students from Steamboat Springs Middle School competed in the National Civics Bee regional competition on April 30 in Carbondale, with two students advancing to the state-level competition set to take place later this summer, according to a Tuesday statement from the district. 

At the event —  hosted by the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce and Colorado nonprofit Youthentity, in partnership with the Colorado Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Daniels Fund and the Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation — students competed alongside their peers during a live quiz program and answered questions from judges to assess their civics knowledge. 

The winners from the Carbondale competition include Jude G. of Glenwood Springs Middle School in first place, Violet B. from SSMS taking second place, and Sylvie F. of SSMS in third place, the three of whom will compete at the state competition on July 24 in Denver. 

The Colorado state champion will then advance to the national competition in Washington, D.C. in the fall.

“At Youthentity, we believe young people should feel empowered to understand their communities and take part in shaping their future,” said Youthentity Executive Director Kris Freeman in the statement. “The National Civics Bee provides a powerful platform for middle school students to develop civic knowledge, think critically about local issues, and be recognized for leadership at an early age.”

“Civic engagement starts at home. When students see leadership in action in their own communities, it changes how they see their role in the world,” said Daniels Fund President and CEO Hanna Skandera in the statement. “We’re proud to stand with our regional partners to inspire the next generation of informed, engaged leaders.”

The regional contest’s first-place winner, Jude G., earned a $500 cash prize, with Violet B. winning $250 and Sylvie F. winning $125. At the state level, prizes include $1,000 for first place, $500 for second and $250 for third. For the national competition, awards are $100,000 for first place, $25,000 for second and $15,000 for third.