Three seventh-grade students—Ishaan Bairangula, Anushka Malali, and Rutuparna Pradhan—have earned recognition as regional finalists in the prestigious National Civics Bee, a nationwide program that encourages middle school students to deepen their understanding of civics and civic engagement.
Each student was one of the highest-scoring essay applicants from the region, demonstrating exceptional knowledge and thoughtful ideas about civic responsibility and community involvement.
As regional finalists, the students have been invited to compete in the next stage of the competition: a live regional event hosted by the Renaissance Newark Foundation on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Essex County College.
During the competition, participants will answer 20 multiple-choice questions focused on civics knowledge. Finalists will also have the opportunity to present the ideas from their essays to a panel of judges, showcasing their understanding of civic issues and potential solutions for their communities.
The National Civics Bee, organized in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, aims to inspire young people to become informed and engaged citizens while promoting a strong understanding of civic principles.
We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and commitment to learning about civics and community leadership!
