MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday released a video message inviting Alabama high school students to take part in a national civics and American history competition as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday.
In Governor Ivey’s video message, she highlights the Presidential 1776 Award, a nationwide challenge launched in partnership with the U.S. Department of Education to encourage a deeper understanding of America’s founding, civic traditions and principles of self-government.
“This summer, we will celebrate America’s 250th birthday – two and a half centuries of the greatest nation the world has ever known,” said Governor Ivey in her video message. “As we mark that milestone, we have a responsibility to prepare the next generation to carry it forward.”
The competition begins with the “Impossible Test,” an online civics exam open to high school students nationwide. Top-performing students from each state advance to regional semifinals, with finalists competing in a nationally broadcast championship in Washington, D.C. Scholarship prizes totaling $250,000 are available for top competitors.
Registration for the Presidential 1776 Award is open now at Presidential1776Award.org.
All interested high school students must register online before February 22, 2026.
The Presidential 1776 Award Online Test will be available between February 22, 2026, and March 1, 2026.
Media Release/Office of Alabama Governor Kay Ivey
