U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon Highlights Civic Learning at History Rocks! Event in Fayetteville, NC

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - Today, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited Jack Britt High School in Fayetteville, North Carolina 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.

Over 500 students in ninth through twelfth grades participated in interactive games designed to deepen their understanding of American history and civics and the important role North Carolina played in the fight for independence. The event opened with remarks from Principal Queesha Tillman and Cumberland County Schools Superintendent Eric C. Bracy, followed by Secretary McMahon. Students received prizes through the History Rocks! initiative while exploring themes of civic engagement, patriotism, and the shared responsibilities of citizenship.

"Having grown up in North Carolina, I know firsthand the state's pivotal role in our nation's history. From being the first colony to call for independence in the 18th century to the birthplace of flight in the 20th, North Carolina's rich legacy will be carried forward by the next generation of Tar Heels," said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. "As we celebrate 250 years of the United States, History Rocks! invites students to engage with American civics and the principles of our founding-and to envision the role they can play in shaping our nation's future."

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.

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.