U.S. Department of Education Senior Advisor for Civic Education Katie Gorka Highlights Civics Education at “History Rocks!” Event in North Dakota

WEST FARGO, ND - Today, U.S. Department of Education (the Department) Senior Advisor for Civic Education Katie Gorka visited Westside Elementary School 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.

Two hundred ten students in third through fifth grades participated in interactive games designed to deepen their understanding of American history and civics and the important role North Dakota has played in our nation's history. The event opened with remarks from Principal Christopher Kalsow and Assistant Principal Jessica Brown, followed by Senior Advisor Gorka. Students explored themes of civic engagement, patriotism, and the shared responsibilities of citizenship.

"From the growing city of Fargo to communities across North Dakota, this is a place where strong values and a real sense of community still define everyday life," said U.S. Department of Education Senior Advisor for Civic Education Katie Gorka. "That spirit is a powerful example of what makes our country work. Through History Rocks!, students can connect those local values to the broader American story and better understand the role they can play in shaping its future."

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.