U.S. Department of Education Chief of Staff Madi Biedermann Highlights Civics Education at 'History Rocks!' Event in Utah

Today, U.S. Department of Education (the Department) Chief of Staff Madi Biedermann visited George Washington Academy as part of the Department'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.

Nearly 500 students in fourth to seventh grades participated in interactive games designed to deepen their understanding of American history and civics and the important role Utah has played in our nation's history. The event opened with remarks from Executive Director Blake Clark, followed by Chief of Staff Biedermann. Students received prizes through the History Rocks! initiative while exploring themes of civic engagement, patriotism, and the shared responsibilities of citizenship.

"It was a privilege to visit George Washington Academy and see how enthusiastic these students are to learn about our nation's history," said U.S. Department of Education Chief of Staff Madi Biedermann. "A school named for George Washington is a fitting place for History Rocks! because it reminds students that America's founding ideals are not just part of the past. They are values worth understanding, appreciating, and carrying forward."

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.