WASHINGTON — The U.S. Education Department recently announced the formation of a new coalition led by conservative groups to promote civics education with a patriotic focus. This initiative, known as the America 250 Civics Education Coalition, involves over 40 national and state-based groups, including the Heritage Foundation and Turning Point USA. The coalition’s emphasis on a positive view of U.S. history has raised concerns among traditional civics groups who value nonpartisan education.
Organized by the America First Policy Institute, which has ties to the president, the coalition aims to reshape civics education. However, it notably excludes many traditional civics organizations. Shawn Healy from iCivics, which advocates for nonpartisan education, emphasized the need for civics curricula to remain unbiased: “You can’t do that if your curriculum is shaded red or blue — it has to be fiercely nonpartisan.”
Despite assurances from a department official that the coalition won’t influence school curricula or receive federal funding, concerns remain. The same day the coalition was announced, the department prioritized “patriotic education” for discretionary grants, presenting it as an accurate and inspiring portrayal of American history. Additionally, the department plans to invest over $160 million in American history and civics grants.
Civics as cultural battleground
Civics, a subject focusing on civic duties and government functions, has become a contentious topic amid educational culture wars. Conservatives, including Trump, have criticized the current teaching of American history. Trump reinstated the 1776 Commission to promote patriotic education, reflecting his administration’s desire to influence the narrative of American history.
The 1776 Commission’s report, criticized by historians for dismissing the impact of slavery, was a response to the 1619 Project by The New York Times, which reexamined the role of slavery in U.S. history.
Heritage Foundation, Turning Point USA sign up
The coalition, dedicated to renewing patriotism and civic knowledge, plans over 100 events nationwide for America’s 250th anniversary. It includes initiatives like the “Trail to Independence Tour” and “Patriotic K-12 Teacher Summits.” Members include the Heritage Foundation, architect of Project 2025, and Turning Point USA, co-founded by the late Charlie Kirk. PragerU, known for controversial content, is also part of the coalition.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon, formerly of the America First Policy Institute, required an ethics waiver to participate, highlighting potential conflicts of interest.
‘News to us’
Leading civics education groups were unaware of the coalition until its public announcement. Shawn Healy expressed a desire for more inclusivity and dialogue about the coalition’s goals. iCivics, founded by Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, launched CivxNow, a cross-partisan coalition prioritizing civic education. With nearly 400 mainstream members, CivxNow emphasizes nonpartisan education.
Only Constituting America is part of both CivxNow and the America 250 Coalition.
Momentum for civics
Civics education advocates see potential benefits in the coalition’s attention to the subject. Donna Phillips of the Center for Civic Education hopes for wider engagement and momentum in civic education. Hans Zeiger of the Jack Miller Center views the initiative as a step forward for national civics movements, emphasizing bipartisan participation.
The National Council for the Social Studies supports balanced dialogue to enhance social studies standards.
Teachers unions criticize coalition
Major teachers unions criticized the coalition for lacking serious civic education elements and excluding respected civics groups. Mary Kusler from the National Education Association highlighted the absence of rigorous content and respected organizations. Randi Weingarten of the American Federation of Teachers expressed disappointment over the coalition’s exclusionary approach, intended to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
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