Las Cruces Public Schools Student Marcus Li to Represent New Mexico at National Civics Bee Championship

The National Civics Bee, organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, challenges middle school students to identify issues in their communities and propose civic solutions while building their knowledge of government, critical-thinking skills and confidence as public speakers.

Source: Las Cruces Public Schools
By Kelly Jameson
Photo: Courtesy

Las Cruces Public Schools student Marcus Li is headed to Washington, D.C., where he will represent New Mexico in the 2026 National Civics Bee® Championship on Wednesday, Oct. 14.

Marcus earned his place on the national stage last spring as an eighth grader at Camino Real Middle School, winning first place at the New Mexico State National Civics Bee. Now a freshman at Centennial High School, Marcus will compete alongside 51 other young civic leaders representing all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and American Samoa.

“Marcus is an extraordinary example of what happens when students recognize that their voices and ideas can make a meaningful difference,” said LCPS Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz. “To see him advance from Camino Real Middle School to represent not only LCPS, but the entire state of New Mexico on a national stage is something our whole community can celebrate. We are incredibly proud of him and will be cheering him on from Las Cruces.”

The National Civics Bee, organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, challenges middle school students to identify issues in their communities and propose civic solutions while building their knowledge of government, critical-thinking skills and confidence as public speakers. Approximately 20,000 students entered the 2026 competition nationwide before advancing through regional and state competitions. Locally, the competition is hosted by The Bridge of Southern New Mexico and the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce Foundation.  

Marcus began his journey by focusing on youth violence, an issue with direct relevance to young people. His essay explored ways students can help resolve conflict, build stronger relationships, and create safer communities through understanding and peer leadership. 

Marcus first captured the top spot at the Las Cruces regional competition before advancing to the New Mexico State National Civics Bee in Albuquerque. On June 13, he was named New Mexico’s state champion, earning the opportunity to represent the state in Washington, D.C. 

In a profile published by The Civic Trust, Marcus shared that his interest in leadership extends beyond the competition. He hopes to one day become a mergers and acquisitions attorney, combining his interests in problem-solving, negotiation and leadership. He credits his parents and younger brother as his greatest inspirations. 

The National Championship will put competitors through several rounds designed to test civic knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills. The field will narrow from 52 students to 25, then 10, five and ultimately one National Civics Bee Champion. The national champion will receive a $100,000 contribution to a 529 education savings plan, with additional prizes for second and third place.

The championship will be televised live on C-SPAN on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Community members can watch the National Civics Bee Championship through participating cable and satellite providers, or online at C-SPAN.org by signing in with their television provider credentials.