January 1, Civics Coalition Launches for America’s Future

Wyatt’s Take

• The government and private groups are pushing for stronger civics education in schools.
• Students will learn more about America’s founding and freedoms.
• Freedom of speech is front and center after recent events.

A new group called the America 250 Civics Education Coalition just kicked off, aiming to bring civics education back into American classrooms. The Department of Education teamed up with groups like First Liberty Institute and Turning Point USA, launching the effort on Constitution Day.

The mission is simple: teach young Americans what makes the country special and equip them to be good citizens. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said,

“A country cannot survive if its values are forgotten by its people.”

She added,

“More than ever, we need to restore the vitality of the American spirit, and this coalition will take bold steps to educate, inspire and mobilize youth toward active and informed citizenship.”

Kelly Shackelford from First Liberty said the plan is to improve civic knowledge leading up to America’s 250th birthday in 2026. He pointed to polls showing many people, especially students, don’t know the basics about their government or appreciate their freedoms.

“There are so many polls, for instance, like 71% of Americans don’t even know what the three branches of government are,” Shackelford said.

He suggested candidates for public office should have to pass a simple civics test.

This coalition is launching things like speaker events, competitions, and programs for teachers and students. They want to tour all 50 states and promote the motto, “Know America. Love America.”

Recent tragedies have gotten many people thinking about the future of free speech and religious freedom. Shackelford said,

“Intimidation is not an answer, and that’ll just make people more bold to stand up and protect their freedoms, or they’ll be taken away.”

The aim is for Americans to stand up for what matters: free speech, sharing ideas, and faith.

Check out more details on the coalition’s launch and upcoming plans here:

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Wyatt Matters

When kids know where their freedoms come from, they’re better prepared to protect them. Teaching America’s story keeps our communities strong and our values alive, just like our grandparents did around the kitchen table.