ARKADELPHIA, AR, Apr. 17, 2026: The Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Arkadelphia Regional Civics Bee, which took place yesterday, April 16. The event, held in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, brought together top middle school students from across the region to test their civic knowledge, critical thinking, and community problem-solving skills.
Caleb Wright, a student at Lakeside Junior High, secured the first-place title after a highly competitive final round. Yaqoob Younus from Lisa Academy West Middle School earned second place, and Landon Wells from Goza Middle School took home third.
The competition featured 16 talented student finalists who kicked off the event by competing in two rigorous rounds of multiple-choice civics questions. From there, the top five highest-scoring students advanced to the third and final stage of the competition. Joining the top three winners in this elite final group were Martin Stover from Goza Middle School and Anna Bullock from Garrett Memorial Christian School.
During the final round, the top five competitors stepped up to the microphone to present a short summary of their application essays, outlining their innovative ideas for solving a community issue. Following their presentations, the students participated in a live, unscripted Q&A session with a panel of judges, defending their ideas and demonstrating their understanding of civic principles.
The three winners received trophies, cash prizes, and recognition for their outstanding achievements. All participants were celebrated for their commitment to understanding and participating in the democratic process.
The three finalists from our Regional Civics Bee will be competing at the State Civics Bee on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at the University of Central Arkansas Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts at 10 a.m. The state finalist will advance to the National Civics Bee Championship in Washington D.C. this Fall.
Thank you to our regional sponsors for this event: Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, AV Arkadelphia, and Walmart.
About the Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce
The Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance makes a positive impact by leading economic and community development efforts that advance growth and prosperity in Clark County, Arkansas.
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