(US Edition)

The Bee's Knees Challenge

OPEN NOW

The Bee’s Knees Challenge is buzzing into 2025 with an exciting STEM adventure for students across the United States! This hands-on challenge invites students in Grades 3–6 to dive into the world of pollination, sustainability, and environmental science through creative problem-solving and project-based learning—right from the classroom or home.

Core scientific skills fostered by The Bee's Knees Challenge

Discover how the Challenge transforms the study of bees into a hands-on exploration of ecosystems, while building key scientific practices—all aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

Find out more

Why participate?

The Bee’s Knees Challenge is a nationwide STEM competition for students in Grades 3–6. Centered around real-world environmental challenges, the program focuses on biodiversity, sustainability, and the vital role bees play in our ecosystems. Through hands-on investigations, research, and teamwork, students build critical thinking and STEM skills—all while making a meaningful impact in their local communities.

Key Dates for 2025

Challenge Start: Monday, April 7, 2025
Submission Deadline: Friday, June 13, 2025 (5PM ET)
Winners Announced: Friday, June 27, 2025

How It Works

Register Your School: Teachers sign up their class or school team to take part in the Challenge.
Access the Digital Challenge Kit: Once registered, you’ll receive a downloadable resource pack with step-by-step activities, worksheets, and hands-on STEM investigations.
Complete the Challenge: Students explore pollination, ecosystem health, and sustainability through guided STEM activities and creative garden design.
Submit Your Project: Share your final project in a 3–5 minute unlisted YouTube video showcasing your students’ learning, design process, and environmental impact.
Judging & Recognition: A panel of STEM educators and experts will review submissions and recognize top entries with awards and national visibility.

Registration & Cost

Participation in the Bee’s Knees Challenge is $140 USD per school. This includes full access to all digital resources, educator guides, student workbooks, and judging materials.

What’s Included

Exclusive Educational Resources

Comprehensive student workbook
NGSS-alignment curriculum guide
The Science of Bees booklet
Printable activity sheets and games
Judging rubric (Developing | Proficient | Exemplary format)
Final video submission checklist

Here's a sneak peak at the resources:

Ready to Join the Challenge?

Register now to secure your spot in The Bee’s Knees Challenge and get full access to all resources, guides, and support.

Join the Challenge

By clicking Pay, you confirm that:

You have read and understood the Terms & Conditions of The Bee’s Knees Challenge – U.S. Edition.
You agree to abide by all submission guidelines, deadlines, and privacy requirements outlined in the program materials.

View Terms & Conditions

Achievement Recognition

Digital certificates and badges for school websites and newsletters
Trophies and prizes awarded to top-performing teams
Invitation to join STEM Hub’s ACES Club, recognizing excellence in STEM education

Who Can Participate?

For Schools: Open to students in Grades 3–6 across the United States. Students work in small teams to tackle real-world environmental challenges—and compete for exciting prizes!

For Teachers: After registration, you’ll receive full access to all challenge materials, including step-by-step guides, student resources, and judging tools—everything you need to lead the challenge with confidence.

For Homeschoolers: Homeschool groups are welcome! Simply register to access the complete challenge kit and guide your learners through this engaging, STEM-rich experience.

For Students: Gather a team of up to 4 classmates, and ask your teacher or homeschool educator to register. Then get ready to design a buzzing solution for your local ecosystem!

Join the Buzz!

Get ready for an unforgettable learning experience that sparks curiosity, builds STEM skills, and helps protect the pollinators that power our planet.