Every student who participated in the 2026 National Civics Bee Regional Competition showcased just how bright the youth in Southern New Mexico are, but only three were able to move on from our competition to the next stage. Thank you to all of our student contestents and congratulations to the three competitors who were able to leave with a victory and continue on to the state competition!
1st Place Winner: Marcus Li
Presenting his essay on a proposed peer buddy program to improve student behavioral outcomes and habilitation, the 8th grader representing Camino Real Middle School, claimed the top spot at our Southern New Mexico regional competition! Marcus was the first contestant to cement his spot in the state competition being held in Albuquerque on June 23rd and looks to turn this win into a streak as he strives to compete in the national event, held in Washington, DC.
2nd Place Winner: Levi Napie
Being tied with another contestant in the second round, Levi Napie was able to win a tie-breaker round to earn the chance to speak on his proposal for increased medical access in rural New Mexico regions through the use of remotely-piloted drones. His previous preparation, combined with the expansion of his ideas through the questions posed by our panel of judges, earned the 6th grader from Truth or Concequences Middle School a second-place finish. He will join Marcus at the state competition in Albuquerque.
3rd Place Winner: Anton Ceasar
Rounding out the three contestants moving on to the state competition was Anton Ceasar, another 6th grader from Truth or Consequences Middle School. Anton’s proposal for increasing equitable sports opportunities within the public school system, combined with his excellent 1st and 2nd round scores, impressed the judges and propelled him all the way onto the podium.
