The U.S. Department of Education has launched a nationwide initiative aimed at restoring patriotism, civics instruction, and respect for national symbols in K-12 classrooms as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary this July. Education Secretary Linda McMahon unveiled the “History Rocks” tour and related efforts to reinvigorate love of country among students, citing concerns that patriotic education has declined in U.S. schools.
McMahon appeared on FOX Business discussing the new tour, which will visit schools in all 50 states to promote civics, American history, and pride in the flag. She argued many districts have shifted away from traditional teachings about the Constitution and national identity, and that rebuilding that foundation is vital for unity and citizenship.
The initiative, scheduled through early 2026, coincides with President Trump’s America 250 celebration — a broader federal effort marking the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding on July 4. The Department is also prioritizing patriotic education in its grantmaking, encouraging programs that emphasize civics, history, and national values in classrooms nationwide.
McMahon and the administration’s strategy come amid broader moves to strengthen civics education. In 2025, the Education Department partnered with more than 40 organizations in an America 250 Civics Education Coalition, bringing together conservative groups including Hillsdale College, PragerU, and Turning Point USA to develop programming around patriotism and founding principles.
Supporters view this emphasis on patriotic education as a timely counterbalance to what they see as declining national pride and historical awareness among students. They point to surveys showing younger generations have weaker knowledge of American history and lower levels of expressed patriotism, trends conservatives argue weaken national cohesion and appreciation for constitutional liberties.
Critics contend that how patriotism is taught matters, warning that civic education should remain accurate and include tough historical topics, not just celebratory narratives. Some educators and commentators argue that focusing too narrowly on “love of country” risks sidelining critical thinking and a full understanding of America’s past.
The History Rocks tour and related policies reflect the Trump administration’s broader push to reshape federal education priorities toward patriotism, constitutional literacy, and American exceptionalism as central goals for the next generation of students.
