ACWORTH, GA — Yesterday, Chancellor of the University System of Georgia Sonny Perdue visited Allatoona High School in Acworth, Georgia as part of the national History Rocks! Trail to Independence Tour. History Rocks! is a U.S. Department of Education initiative aiming to strengthen civic literacy by helping students connect personally with America’s founding principles ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Chancellor Perdue, who is also the former Governor of Georgia and former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, met with students, teachers, and district leaders to spotlight the school’s hands-on approach to civic learning and history education. Following the national anthem and pledge of allegiance, Chancellor Perdue offered remarks to students about the importance of civics and history as the nation’s Semiquincentennial approaches. Students then engaged in interactive games involving national and state history.
“Allatoona High School is helping young people understand American history not as something in a textbook, but as a story they are part of,” said University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue. “When students learn our founding ideals and see their role in shaping Georgia’s future, they are building the foundation for leadership, college success, and meaningful careers.”
Background
The History Rocks! initiative is a key component of the U.S. Department of Education’s America 250 celebrations, coordinated with the America 250 Civics Education Coalition, a national partnership with the America First Policy Institute, Turning Point USA, Hillsdale College, and more than 50 national and state organizations. This coalition is dedicated to advancing civic education and expanding opportunities for students to learn about the ideas, individuals, and events that define the American story.
The visit underscores the national push to strengthen history and civics education by encouraging collaboration among K-12 schools, families, colleges, and community partners. Through the History Rocks! tour, the Department of Education and its national coalition partners are elevating schools like Allatoona that inspire civic pride and help young people grow into knowledgeable, engaged citizens.