U.S. Department of Education Senior Advisor for Civic Education Katie Gorka visited Christian Heritage Academy in Lakeville, Minnesota on Apr. 15 as part of the Department’s national History Rocks! Trail to Independence tour. The event is one of several activities planned to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th birthday and aims to promote civic literacy among students.
The visit highlights efforts to help students connect with the founding principles of the United States through classroom discussions and interactive lessons. By engaging with elementary and middle school students, Gorka focused on themes such as civic engagement, patriotism, and shared responsibilities of citizenship.
“Minnesota is known not only for its lakes but also for a passion for civic engagement. It’s inspiring to see that tradition continue with today’s students,” said U.S. Department of Education Senior Advisor for Civic Education Katie Gorka. “Through programs like History Rocks!, young people are building a deeper understanding of our nation’s founding principles and their role in shaping its future.”
The History Rocks! initiative is part of the Department's larger celebration plans in partnership with Freedom 250 and coordinated with the America 250 Civics Education Coalition. These initiatives include visits by Secretary Linda McMahon, other administration officials, and education leaders to schools across all 50 states to showcase high-quality history and civics instruction.
Freedom 250 leads presidential programming related to the nation’s semiquincentennial anniversary, aiming to unite Americans around celebrating history, freedoms, and opportunities for future generations. The America 250 Civics Education Coalition brings together organizations including the America First Policy Institute, Turning Point USA, Hillsdale College, and more than fifty others dedicated to advancing civic education nationwide.
