CHICAGO, IL – February 6, 2026 – U.S. secretary of Education linda McMahon visited Chicago Hope Academy today to promote both the Department of Education’s “Returning education to the States Tour” and the “history Rocks! Trail to Independence” initiative.
Secretary McMahon is traveling the country to gather best practices in education and boost civic literacy ahead of America’s 250th birthday.
- Secretary McMahon is visiting all 50 states as part of the “Returning Education to the States Tour.”
- The “History Rocks!” tour aims to strengthen students’ understanding of American history and civics.
- The Secretary toured classrooms at Chicago hope Academy and participated in an assembly with students.
McMahon’s visit to Chicago Hope academy underscored the Department of Education’s commitment to strengthening civic education and preparing students for the workforce, according to officials. The Secretary toured a career and technical education lab and a history classroom before participating in an assembly with over 200 students in grades nine through twelve.
During the assembly, students engaged in interactive games designed to deepen their understanding of American history, civics, and the role Illinois has played in the nation’s story. The event began with remarks from Chicago Hope Academy President and Principal Ike Muzikowski,followed by remarks from Secretary McMahon.
“It was an honor to visit the Land of Lincoln to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday and engage with students in a history classroom and assembly focused on civics and the story of America,” said McMahon. “I also had the chance to see innovative career and technical education classrooms that are preparing Illinois students for the demands of the modern workforce. Through experiences like these, we aim to inspire the next generation of leaders-both in civic life and in the workplace-who will shape and strengthen our nation’s next 250 years.”
The “Returning Education to the States Tour” involves McMahon traveling to all 50 states to hear directly from teachers, parents, and community leaders about successful educational practices, with the goal of compiling a toolkit of best practices to share with states nationwide.
Why It Matters
The Department of Education’s focus on civic literacy comes as national surveys show declining knowledge of american history and government among young adults. The “History rocks!” initiative, in partnership with Freedom 250 and the America 250 Civics Education Coalition, is a direct response to these concerns, aiming to reinvigorate civic education in the lead-up to the nation’s semiquincentennial in 2026. This initiative isn’t simply about memorizing dates and names; it’s about fostering a deeper understanding of the principles that underpin American democracy and preparing students to be informed and engaged citizens.
The emphasis on career and technical education alongside civics highlights a broader strategy to equip students with both the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the 21st-century economy.By showcasing innovative programs like those at Chicago Hope academy, the Department of Education hopes to inspire similar initiatives across the country.
history Rocks!-The initiative aims to boost civic knowledge before America’s 250th birthday in 2026.
Returning Education to the States-McMahon is visiting all 50 states to gather educational best practices.
Chicago Hope Academy-The Secretary toured classrooms and spoke to students about history, civics, and career training.
Learn more about secretary McMahon’s Returning Education to the States tour.
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