Indiana First Lady Maureen Braun Highlights Civics Education at “History Rocks!” Event

Fishers, I.N. - Today, First Lady of the State of Indiana Maureen Braun visited Hamilton Southeastern High School as part of the 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 fifty students in grades 9 through 12 participated in interactive games designed to deepen their understanding of American history and civics and the important role Indiana has played in our nation's history. The event opened with remarks from Dr. Matt Kegley, Interim Superintendent of Hamilton Southeastern Schools, followed by First Lady Braun. Students explored the themes of civic engagement, patriotism, and the shared responsibilities of citizenship.

"Reading is one of the most powerful tools you have, not just to learn about the past, but to make sense of the present and shape the future. When you explore Indiana's history, you're not just studying what happened, you're discovering the values and decisions that built our state," said Maureen Braun, First Lady of the State of Indiana. "From the moment Indiana adopted its Constitution in 1816 and called for education to be available to all, a remarkably forward-thinking commitment for its time, our state has believed in the power of knowledge to shape opportunity and strengthen our communities."

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.