Good morning, John,

I hope this email finds you well. This year, the Bill of Rights Institute is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to identify judges for the essay portion of their 2026 National Civics Bee. The details of the commitment, the time period, and the pay are below. If you would like to be considered for this opportunity, please fill out this application and a member of our team will be in touch with more details. This opportunity is limited to 500 educators.
 
-------
Opportunity: Judges will be sent between 65 and 115 500-750 word essays (depending on the number submitted to the contest). Judges will evaluate student essays based on clarity, civic understanding, and writing quality using a standardized rubric and submit their scores through an online platform. Judges will have nine days to complete their review.

Judging Period:

• Official judging period: Feb 4–Feb 13  

Approximate Time Commitment: 6-10 hours depending on the number of essays received.
 
Additional Information: 

• Judges will be compensated $150 upon successful evaluation of their assigned essays.
• Judges must attend an online training and/or watch the recording of an online training prior to receiving their essays. 
• The Institute will recognize all educators who participate in a press release that will be shared on the Institute's website and social media channels.