U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon Visits South Carolina on History Rocks! Tour and Returning Education to the States Tour

SOUTH CAROLINA - Today, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited West Pelzer Elementary School in Pelzer, South Carolina as part of the U.S. Department of Education's (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.

The event opened with remarks from Principal Miranda Leopard and Anderson School District One Superintendent Dr. Seth Young, followed by an energetic program led by the school's emcee. Three hundred students from kindergarten through fifth grade participated in history games, answered questions about South Carolina's Revolutionary War heritage, and received prizes provided by the History Rocks! initiative. The games were designed to deepen students' understanding of America's founding principles and the important role South Carolina played in our fight for independence.

"It was an honor to join students in South Carolina to celebrate the state's rich contributions to our founding in anticipation of America's upcoming 250th birthday. Civic education is critical for preparing young people to understand their rights and responsibilities and to appreciate the principles that have guided our nation for nearly 250 years," said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. "History Rocks! gives students the opportunity to connect with our past in a meaningful way while encouraging them to take an active role in shaping America's future."

"As we approach America's 250th birthday, South Carolina is leading the way in bringing our founding story to life," said South Carolina Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver. "More Revolutionary War battles were fought here than in any other state. Through the Palmetto Civics Project and our partnership with the American Battlefield Trust, we're ensuring South Carolina students don't just learn history-they experience the fight for freedom on the very ground where independence was won."

Earlier that day, in support of her Returning Education to the States Tour, Secretary McMahon toured and interacted with students at the Meyer Center for Special Children in Greenville, South Carolina. She attended a roundtable with South Carolina Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver and parents identifying how the school supports their student population with disabilities. Secretary McMahon is currently traveling to all 50 states on her Returning Education to the States Tour, exploring innovative state and local education programs and identifying best practices.

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 founding 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.

Learn more about Secretary McMahon's Returning Education to the States tour here.

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