U.S. Department of Education
05/27/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/27/2026 07:31
U.S. Department of Education Under Secretary of Education Nicholas Kent Highlights Civics Education at 'History Rocks!' Event in Hawaii
May 27, 2026
HONOLULU, HI - Yesterday, U.S. Department of Education Under Secretary of Education Nicholas Kent visited Mokulele Elementary 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.
Two hundred students participated in interactive games designed to deepen their understanding of American history and civics and the important role Hawaii has played in our nation's history. The event opened with remarks from Dr. Barry Harris, Principal of Mokulele Elementary, followed by Under Secretary Kent. Students received prizes through the History Rocks! initiative while exploring themes of civic engagement, patriotism, and the shared responsibilities of citizenship.
"Hawaii is a place that reminds us both how far the American story reaches and how much it has demanded of those who served to defend it," said U.S. Department of Education Under Secretary of Education Nicholas Kent. "Coming just after Memorial Day, this event is also a chance for students to reflect on the sacrifice, duty, and love of country that have shaped our history. As we close this tour, there is no better place to remember that civic education is not only about learning the past but honoring it."
Background
The History Rocks! initiative is a key component of the U.S. Department of Education's celebrations for America's 250th birthday, in partnership with Freedom 250 and coordinated with the America 250 Civics Education Coalition. 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.
Learn more about the Department's Semiquincentennial initiatives here.
Freedom 250 leads the presidential programming for the nation's 250th anniversary celebration. Its mission is to unite Americans around one shared purpose-celebrating the Triumph of the American Spirit by honoring our history, cherishing our freedoms, and building the golden age of opportunity for the next 250 years.
Learn more about Freedom 250 here.
The America 250 Civics Education Coalition is 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.
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