Las Cruces Student Will Compete for National Civics Title

Centennial High freshman Marcus Li heads to Washington for the National Civics Bee championship on October 14.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Empty modern high-school classroom with rows of oak desks bathed in bright morning sunlight. — Centennial High School student Marcus Li will travel to Washington D.C. on October 14 to compete in the National Civics Bee final round. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Las Cruces Public Schools student Marcus Li will represent New Mexico at the National Civics Bee on October 14, 2026. Li advanced to the final stage after winning the state competition in June.

Why it matters

The competition, organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, encourages students to engage with civic issues through essay writing and problem-solving. Li, a freshman at Centennial High School, earned his spot after securing first place in both the Las Cruces regional and the state events.

The national field has been narrowed from 20,000 entrants to 52 finalists. The ultimate national champion will receive a $100,000 contribution toward a 529 education savings plan.

The players

Marcus Li

He is a student at Centennial High School in Las Cruces who is representing New Mexico in the national competition.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

This organization serves as the primary sponsor and organizer of the annual National Civics Bee for students.

The details

Marcus Li developed his entry by focusing on youth violence and strategies for conflict resolution. The national event will test students as they progress through rounds narrowing the field from 52 down to 25, then 10, five, and finally one champion.

June 13: Marcus Li won the New Mexico state championship.
October 14, 2026: The National Civics Bee Championship occurs in Washington, D.C.

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Political Context

The National Civics Bee is a structured effort to increase youth engagement with government and democratic processes. Some critics argue these private-sector initiatives should be paired with more robust, federally funded public school curriculum expansions to ensure broader accessibility for all students.

Local students and their families can observe the competition to see how civic issues are debated at a high level. This event provides a pathway for students to earn significant college funding through academic performance in government-focused topics.

The takeaway

Engaging in local and state civic competitions can lead to significant national recognition and financial support for higher education. Students interested in these opportunities should start by monitoring regional events hosted by their local chambers of commerce.