Mustang 8th Grader is Headed to D.C.; Wins Civics Bee State Finals
OKLAHOMA CITY (June 30, 2026) — Mustang eighth-grader Jessica Mabry won first place Tuesday morning in the Oklahoma State Final Civics Bee, demonstrating strong civic knowledge and presenting a plan to help teens address mental health concerns.
For the third year, The State Chamber of Oklahoma proudly hosted the 2026 National Civics Bee in our state. The initiative is aimed at encouraging more young Americans to learn and engage with government and contribute to their communities. The Civics Bee final was organized in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and held in Oklahoma City at Innovation Hall. The competition inspires middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions.
1st Place– Jessica Mabry, Mustang Central Middle School
2nd Place– Ahmet Kara, Stillwater Junior High
3rd Place- Umar Aslam, Casady School , Oklahoma City
After finishing in the top three at local qualifying events, 12 finalists advanced to the Oklahoma State Final Civics Bee. Students competed in a live quiz, delivered speeches based on their civics essays, and answered questions from judges to demonstrate their civic knowledge.
Winners received cash prizes, including $1,000 for the first-place student. Mabry won the state competition with a speech focused on the importance of mental health awareness and support for teens. She will advance to the national competition in Washington, D.C., in November, where students will compete for up to $100,000 in scholarships.
“I’m really excited. I didn’t expect to get this far, and I think it’ll be really a fun experience,” said Mabry. “My history teacher had the whole class do it because it’s a really cool opportunity. I learned a lot through studying, and I’ve learned more about how the government operates, the Constitution, and the things that our country is made from.”
“We’re excited to see so many bright Oklahoma students engage in civics with this unique event,” said Brent Skarky, senior vice president of communications for The State Chamber. “It’s an awesome opportunity for students who want to get active in government. We’re hoping this event will continue to grow and encourage more to get involved.”
More information on the Civics Bee: https://okstatechamber.com/national-civics-bee/
Download pics, video and sound bytes here.
Media Contact: Brent Skarky – brent@okstatechamber.com, (405) 818-1939
