America 250: MSPC launches "We the Students" Civics Bowl

MSPC Newsroom
2 hours ago
2 min read

Boise, Idaho — Mountain States Policy Center (MSPC) announced today the launch of the We the Students Civics Bowl, a regional, buzzer-based civics competition for high school students that will be held Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise.

The competition is part of the national America 250 commemoration, marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, and is designed to engage students in the study of the Constitution, American government, and the principles of self-government.

Blue background with an American flag; text reads "250" with a mountain design, and "We the Students Civics Bowl" in white and red.

Open to high school teams from Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Washington, the We the Students Civics Bowl will bring together students from across the region for a fast-paced, academic team competition featuring tournament-style bracket play and celebrity judges and moderators from law, media, and public life.

💰 Prizes

$5,000 Grand Prize awarded to the first-place team
$2,000 Runner-Up Prize

“As America marks 250 years of self-government, it is essential that the next generation understands both the history and the responsibilities of citizenship,” said Chris Cargill, President at Mountain States Policy Center. “The We the Students Civics Bowl is a meaningful way to celebrate America 250 by putting students at the center of civic learning.”

Each team will consist of six students—four primary players and two alternates—and must be accompanied by an adult coach. There is no cost to participate, and travel stipends may be available for teams traveling from outside the local area, subject to availability.

The event will run from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will take place on the Garden Level, Senate Side of the Idaho State Capitol.

Participation is limited to 12 teams, and registration is now open. Schools are encouraged to register early.

🔗 Register online:https://www.mountainstatespolicy.org/wethestudents