As the United States gears up for its 250th birthday in July 2026, Education Secretary Linda McMahon is leading a bold initiative to revive patriotism and civics education in schools across the nation.

McMahon, appearing on Mornings with Maria, discussed her push to restore pride in the American flag and a shared national identity among youth, while the Department of Education launches the History Rocks tour to bring history and love of country back into classrooms in time for the historic milestone.

The issue has sparked debate over the state of education and the fading sense of unity in America. While some see this as a necessary return to foundational values, others question the focus amidst competing academic priorities.

Reviving Civics for a Milestone Celebration

With the nation approaching 250 years of independence, McMahon has sounded the alarm on what she sees as a troubling drift away from teaching the basics of American identity. She argues that understanding the Constitution and respecting national symbols are being sidelined in many schools, as Fox Business explains.

"We don't teach love of country. We don't say the Pledge of Allegiance," McMahon said on Mornings with Maria, pointing to a deeper cultural shift that she believes must be reversed.

Her words hit hard, especially when so many feel that schools have prioritized trendy agendas over timeless principles. If kids aren’t learning what makes this nation unique, how can they be expected to carry the torch forward?

History Rocks Tour Takes Center Stage

The History Rocks tour, a cornerstone of McMahon’s plan, is rolling out nationwide to reintroduce civics and pride in America’s story. The initiative aims to raise a generation that not only knows the past but feels inspired to shape the future.

"We're going across the country with our History Rocks tour, and we are focusing on civics, education, and love of country," McMahon declared. It’s a mission statement that resonates with those who worry our youth are losing their roots.

Let’s be honest—when was the last time a school assembly stirred genuine awe for the sacrifices behind our freedom? This tour isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a lifeline for a shared identity that’s slipping through our fingers.

Unity as the Ultimate Goal

McMahon isn’t alone in tying this effort to the upcoming 250th anniversary, with the Trump administration framing the celebration as a chance for unity over division. Country music star Neal McCoy also joined Mornings with Maria to echo the call for renewed patriotism across the land.

Meanwhile, U.S. Chief of Protocol Ambassador Monica Crowley highlighted President Donald Trump’s America 250 initiative and a new volunteer program during the same broadcast. The message is clear: this milestone isn’t just a party—it’s a reset.

And isn’t that refreshing? In a time when every issue seems to fracture us further, a focus on what binds us together feels like a breath of fresh air, even if the execution will face scrutiny.

Balancing Patriotism with Academic Priorities

McMahon insists that rebuilding patriotism is just as critical as boosting test scores, arguing that teaching why America matters belongs alongside reading, writing, and math. She’s not wrong to suggest that a nation without pride in its story risks losing its soul.

Yet, as the Department of Education tackles unrelated challenges like uncovering $1 billion in student loan fraud, as McMahon revealed on Varney & Co., some might wonder if the focus on civics could stretch resources thin.

Still, if we’re not instilling a sense of purpose in our kids, what are we even building toward?