HMS Student Wins Tennessee National Civics Bee, Advances to Nationals

What started as a way to pass time during the recent ice storm has turned into a major academic achievement for one Houston Middle School student.

Shyla Jayashankar recently earned first place at the Tennessee state level of the National Civics Bee, securing her spot as Tennessee's representative at the National Civics Bee this fall in Washington, D.C.

Unlike traditional school-based competitions, Shyla’s journey began at home. During the winter shutdown, Shyla entered the contest after seeing it online. What followed was a deep dive into civic thinking, problem solving and real-world application.

The Civics Bee incorporates elements of a spelling bee and debate, challenging students through two rounds of civics questions and a third round Q&A in front of a panel of judges. Students also submit an essay proposing a solution to a community issue.

Shyla’s idea focused on improving how residents dispose of hazardous waste in Germantown. Her proposal suggested a more convenient system where households could place small hazardous waste bins alongside regular trash collection, making hazardous waste disposal easier and more accessible for families.

“She likes to write, and this just clicked for her,” her mom shared. “It was something practical that she connected to in real life.”

At the regional competition, Shyla advanced through two rounds of questions before being selected as one of five finalists. In the final round, she presented and defended her idea before a panel of judges, answering questions about cost, feasibility and how her proposal connects to principles of self-governance, participation and civic engagement.

She finished in first place among students from across the region, earning her spot at the Tennessee State Civics Bee, held at the Tennessee State Museum in Nashville.

There, Shyla once again impressed the judges, capturing first place and earning the title of Tennessee State Champion. With the victory, she will represent the State of Tennessee at the National Civics Bee this fall, where she will compete against the top middle school civic scholars from across the country.

Across GMSD, moments like this highlight what happens when students are encouraged to think critically about the world around them and take ownership of their ideas.

From an unexpected winter break project to becoming Tennessee's National Civics Bee representative, Shyla's story is a reminder that big ideas can start in the most unexpected moments. Her success reflects not only her curiosity and determination but also the power of civic learning to inspire students to make a meaningful difference in their communities.