Barnwell County Students Named Finalists in Regional Civics Bee
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Barnwell County School District is proud to announce that several middle school students have been named Top 20 Finalists for the Regional Civics Bee, an accomplishment that reflects their dedication to learning about their role as engaged citizens.
The Regional Civics Bee is part of the National Civics Bee, a nationwide initiative designed to encourage middle school students to deepen their understanding of civics and actively engage in their communities. The Regional Civics Bee for our area will take place on May 16, 2026, and it is being sponsored by the Southern Palmetto Chamber of Commerce.
Students first participated in the essay round of the competition, where they were asked to reflect on civic issues and demonstrate their understanding of how citizens can make a difference in their communities. Based on those essays, the top submissions were selected to advance to the Regional Civics Bee, where finalists will compete by answering questions about government, civics, and civic engagement.
Finalists at regional competitions advance to state competitions, and finalists at state competitions advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C. For the regional competition, prizes include $125 for third place, $250 for second place, and $500 for the winner. Additional prizes at higher levels include cash awards, trophies, national recognition, and a $100,000 contribution to a 529 college savings plan for the National Champion. In 2026, state competition winners will also earn a $5,000 donation for their school.
The following Barnwell County students have been named Top 20 Finalists:
- Sanaa Jenkins
- Victoria Tharin
- Aubriel Anderson
- Gabrielle Brown
- Sarah Tadamatla
- Savannah O'Neal
- Mary Reece
- Kyree Hammond
- Brooklynn Still
- Shalayah Badger
- Noah Trujillo
- Andrea Castellanos
“We are incredibly proud of these students for their hard work and for taking the initiative to learn more about how our government works and how citizens can positively impact their communities,” said Dr. Crissie Stapleton, Superintendent of Barnwell County School District. “Opportunities like the National Civics Bee help students understand that their voices matter and that they have the power to shape the future through informed civic engagement.”
The district congratulates these outstanding students and wishes them the best of luck as they prepare to compete in the Regional Civics Bee on May 16th. Their achievement highlights the importance of civic education and the role young people play in strengthening our communities and our nation.
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Barnwell County Students Named Finalists in Regional Civics Bee
For more information, contact:
Barnwell County School District Superintendent Office
Phone: (803) 541-3590
Email: cstapleton@bcsd.net