The Buzz on Civics: Writing a Winning Essay (Middle School Students)

Essay submissions accepted through Feb. 3, 2026

Resources for entering the 2026 National Civics Bee, including guidance and examples for student essays.

• Civics Bee page

MSDE Public Comment Survey — Comprehensive Health Education (SFVC)

Public comment accepted through Feb. 9, 2026

MSDE is revising Maryland’s health education requirements and guidance for schools.

• Draft regulation (COMAR): the rules schools must follow
• Draft framework: what topics/skills to cover by grade band

How to help: take the survey and share what should be clearer, what’s missing, and what students actually need.

• Take the Survey
• SFVC webpage
• Draft Regulation (PDF)
• Draft Framework (PDF)

NASC National Councils of Excellence (NCOE) Awards

Submission deadline: Feb. 13, 2026

Recognition program for middle and high school student councils that meet national standards for service, leadership, student voice, and engagement.

• NCOE details

Student Visionary Program (Blood Cancer United)

High school seniors lead an individual or team campaign.

• Program
• Become a Candidate

FUNDrive — Fundraising for Your School

Collect gently used items for a designated thrift store and earn money for your student programs (no selling required).

• Program details

The Maryland Cup — Ulman Foundation

Cancer awareness competition (individuals, teams, or schools).

• Learn More

Maryland Center for School Safety — Students Advocating for Safety (SAS)

Ongoing student voice on safety topics. Rolling application.

• MCSS
• Apply

MPT Youth Advisory Council

MPT’s Maryland Center for Media Literacy & Education is creating a Youth Advisory Council to explore how media intersects with student life.

Open to grades 9–12. Virtual statewide meetings. Earn service learning hours through impact projects.

• Student Application
• Nominate a Student

MD Civic Education Coalition — Youth Advisory Council (YAC)

Student platform for service and leadership activities that support civic education and engagement.

Meets virtually each month and plans several in-person events during the year.

• Sign Up / Join

Strong Schools Maryland — Student Ambassador Collective

Student-led group focused on advocating for fully-funded, equitable public schools in Maryland.

Application Deadline: Varies

• Program Info
• Interest / Application Link

Youth Service America (YSA)

Service ideas, project-sharing opportunities, grants, and more for youth ages 5–25.

• YSA Website

National Association of Student Councils — Recognition Programs

Distinguished Student Leader (High School)

• Program link

Emerging Student Leader (Middle School)

• Program link