Meet Grace E.: Advocating for Stronger Public Education 

Hometown: Kingwood, West Virginia

Competition Host(s): West Virginia Chamber Foundation

Essay Topic: Public Education Funding Reforms 

Grace E. is passionate about ensuring students have access to a high-quality education. For her National Civics Bee® essay, she focused on public education funding reforms, exploring ways schools can receive the resources they need to help all students succeed. 

When she’s not thinking about solutions to community challenges, Grace enjoys staying active on the volleyball court and exploring the world through reading. She has also had the opportunity to experience one of the world’s most unique destinations: the Galápagos Islands, a trip that fueled her curiosity about history, culture, and the natural world. 

A lover of English, Grace is inspired by Jimmy Carter, whose commitment to public service and humanitarian work left a lasting impact both during and after his presidency. She also admires Malala Yousafzai, whose advocacy for education has inspired millions of people around the world. 

Looking ahead, Grace hopes to become a constitutional lawyer, combining her passion for learning, advocacy, and civic engagement to help uphold and interpret the principles that shape American democracy. 

When she’s not studying, reading, or playing volleyball, Grace enjoys one of her favorite meals: fettuccine alfredo. 

The National Civics Bee celebrates students like Grace who are using their voices, ideas, and leadership to strengthen their communities. We are proud to recognize her as a West Virginia State Finalist.