Today, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited Elmira High School as part of the U.S. Department of Education’s national History Rocks! Trail to Independence tour in celebration of America's upcoming 250th birthday. The tour aims to strengthen civic literacy by helping students personally connect with America’s founding principles.
Today’s event opened with remarks from Secretary McMahon, U.S. Representative for New York Nick Langworthy, Elmira Principal Christopher Rager, and Superintendent Hillary Austin. During the assembly, students participated in interactive activities and games designed to deepen their understanding of America’s founding principles and the important role New York has played in shaping the American story.
“It was an honor to bring the History Rocks! tour to New York today, home of the Federalist Papers and the pivotal Battle of Saratoga, to celebrate this state’s great contributions to our nation,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “My hope is that as we celebrate this milestone, students in the Empire State are inspired to keep learning, keep dreaming, and keep loving this country – because America’s story isn’t finished, and they will write its next great chapter.”
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.
Secretary McMahon, Administration officials, and education leaders will visit schools in all 50 states to showcase examples of high-quality history and civics instruction that bring American principles to life. The tour will feature hands-on learning activities, opportunities for students to explore their roles as future leaders, and conversations with community members about how to strengthen civic education nationwide.
Learn more about the Department’s America 250 initiatives here.