Education Department Partners with Turning Point USA for Civic Education

On Wednesday, the Department of Education announced a significant partnership with Turning Point USA aimed at enhancing civic education across the country as the nation nears its 250th anniversary.

This initiative was in the works before the tragic death of Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk, but leaders emphasized its urgency during a press conference where the partnership was unveiled. The America 250 Civics Education Coalition includes over 40 organizations, with notable members like Hillsdale College, the America First Policy Institute, and Moms for Liberty.

As we approach the semi-centennial in 2026, the landscape of civic knowledge, engagement, and constitutional understanding among youth appears to be in decline. “We really need to focus on this,” said McMahon, referencing a concerning poll that suggested fewer than half of Gen Z feel proud to be Americans. A study from the US Chamber of Commerce indicated that more than 70% of Americans could not pass a basic civic literacy quiz.

The coalition aims to provide resources to teachers, parents, homeschool educators, religious institutions, and others involved in civic education. The mission is clear: to reignite a sense of patriotism, enhance citizen literacy, and inspire Americans of all ages to appreciate and understand the founding principles of the nation.

The motto of the coalition is simple: “I know America. I love America.”

During the conference, Erica Donald, chairman of the America First Policy Institute’s Center for Educational Opportunities, emphasized the need for students to be educated on the true history of the country. “If our students really understood the US Constitution, they would never think that violence is an acceptable reaction to opposing views,” she stated.

Interestingly, just a day before Kirk’s death, a report revealed that about one-third of university students deemed violence an acceptable means to disrupt speeches they disagreed with.