CBS44 WSWG Covers Dougherty County School System and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Participation in the National Civics Bee®

On March 14, 2025, CBS44 WSWG produced a report on the Dougherty County' School System and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce's participation in the National Civics Bee®. The full report can be found here.

Robert A. Cross Middle Magnet School middle schoolers to participate in Civics Bee

ALBANY, Ga. – A few Dougherty County middle school students are going to be taking place in a statewide and potentially a nationwide competition.

CBS 44’s Brian Roche has more.

The Dougherty County School System (DCSS) is getting some of their students ready as they represent Southwest Georgia in a national competition for the first time.

Robert A. Cross Middle Magnet School seventh graders…Excited and a little nervous as they’re preparing to take part in the first Georgia Civics Bee.

“I’m really excited to do this, even though I’m really scared, nervous. It’s still a really fun and exciting experience,” said Kaylin Hutchins, Student, Robert A. Cross Middle Magnet School.

“Although I feel nervous. Think I’ll be ready to do the Civics Bee Monday, (March 17th)” said Emmanuel Sancho, Student, Robert A. Cross Middle Magnet School.

The state-wide civics bee is being put on by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and they’re working with both the Albany Chamber of Commerce (AACC) and the Dougherty County School System (DCSS).

“This is the first time the Albany Area Chamber has hosted the national civics bee. It’s an honor. It’s the first time it’s in Georgia. And, so, we’re very honored to be part of this organization,” said Barbara Rivera-Holmes, President, Albany Chamber of Commerce (AACC).

“The Georgia Chamber believes heavily in investing in our future generations and in the importance of civic-minded leaders. And, so, we felt we felt like this was a great opportunity to engage with students and get them educated on the way that our government works,” said Tiffany Holmes, Deputy Director, Georgia Chamber of Commerce.

For Superintendent, Kenneth Dyer, having Dougherty County take part in the Civics Bee and represent Southwest Georgia is a tremendous honor.

“I’m proud of our students, like I said before, and this is more than just another activity. This is something that helps prepare our students for life after school to understand the importance of civic engagement, how to advocate for issues that matter most to them,” said Kenneth Dyer, Superintendent, DCSS.

And, back at Robert Cross, Kailyn and Emmanuel may be nervous, but they’re ready.

“I think I’m really excited because I get to go out there and represent my county and I want to make everyone proud and show how smart everyone down here in South Georgia really is,” said Hutchins.

The finals for the Georgia Civics Bee will take place at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library in Atlanta later this year.