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What is the Civic Star Challenge?

In partnership with iCivics and the Bill of Rights Institute, the Challenge celebrates and recognizes teachers who share how they are teaching the themes of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of our nation.

We’re inviting all teachers of grades K-12 to share how they’re helping students make sense of America’s past, present, and future—and we’re awarding up to $50,000 to support the teachers and schools doing this work.

How to Enter Civic Star Challenge?

Select a civic focus from a recent lesson or classroom activity and share a brief narrative reflecting student outcomes and/or learning.



Contest Periods

Period 1: August 15-September 30
Period 2: October 1-31
Period 3: November 1-December 15



Contest Prizes

Three $5,000 Winners for Grades K-5, 6-8, and 9-12 per contest period

Four $1,250 Honorable Mentions between Aug. 15 - Dec. 15

Civic Action and Service


Media Literacy


Debate and Dialogue


Civic Star Challenge FAQs

The Civic Star Challenge showcases the work civics and history educators are doing in America’s 250th anniversary year in their classrooms. The contest offers educators an opportunity to win cash prizes and recognition for their everyday classroom moments.

Any educator can participate—K–12 teachers across public, private, charter, and homeschool settings, in any subject area.

The challenge runs August 15-December 15, 2026.

Educators will be asked to select a civic focus from a recent lesson/classroom activity and share a brief narrative the reflects student outcomes and/or learning.

Almost anything! If it connects students to contest themes, it counts:

  • Discussions or debates
  • Quick-writes or reflections
  • Primary source analysis
  • Simulations or projects
  • Creative or service-learning activities

You may use iCivics, Bill of Rights Institute resources, or your own lessons.

Even a short classroom tie-in to your current unit is eligible—as long as it connects to the themes.

Educators who enter the contest will have an opportunity to win up to $5000. The contest will award $50,000 in total prizes.

Drawings will be selected at the close of the August 15-September 30 cycle, the October 1-31 cycle, and the November 1-December 15 cycle. Winners will be notified by email.

Engage students in meaningful civic learning during America’s 250th school year and reward educators along the way.