America’s 250 : USA New Study Turning Point
America’s New Study Turning Point is transforming civics and inspiring future leaders.
Washington, D.C. September 17, 2025 In a concerted effort to revitalize civic knowledge among young Americans, the U.S. Department of Education, in partnership with the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), Turning Point USA (TPUSA), Hillsdale College, and over 40 national and state organizations, today announced the formation of the America 250 Civics Education Coalition. This New Study Turning Point of America is designed to spark renewed patriotism, strengthen civic literacy, and reaffirm a shared understanding of the founding principles of the United States.
Purpose and Vision
The coalition was officially launched on Constitution Day, taking advantage of the symbolic date to emphasize the importance of civic awareness. Its formation builds on prior federal efforts to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
With oversight from Education Secretary Linda McMahon, the coalition seeks to engage students, teachers, and community members across the country in deeper conversations about citizenship, leadership, and constitutional principles. As Secretary McMahon put it:
“A country cannot survive if its values are forgotten by its people.”
The coalition’s leadership includes:
- Executive Director Katie Gorka, who describes the initiative as aiming to “restore patriotism by ensuring every American knows our history and treasures our freedoms.”
- Co-Chairs Erika Donalds and Dr. Ben Judge, who emphasize the need for civic knowledge to be central to education and the cultivation of informed citizens.
Hillsdale College President Dr. Larry Arnn stressed the connection to the founding generation: “We will work together to learn [the Founders’] principles, and for the love of them we will have a grand celebration.”
Activities & Initiatives
Over the upcoming year, the coalition plans a robust programming agenda intended to reach students and communities across the nation. Some of the immediate efforts include:
- Fundamental Liberties College Speaker Series: A program to bring speakers to college campuses to discuss constitutional rights and principles.
- 50-State Campus Speaking Tour: A nationwide tour engaging students in civic dialogue and education.
- Roundtable Discussions & Workshops: The coalition has already held its inaugural roundtable and plans to host forums, seminars, and community outreach events.
The coalition lists more than 40 supporting entities, ranging from state policy institutes and educational associations to nonprofit advocacy groups. Among the members are the 1776 Project Foundation, Heritage Foundation, PragerU, American Cornerstone Institute, and many others.
A full and updated list of partners, events, and resources is to be maintained on the coalition’s website.
Analysis & Commentary
The formation of the America New Study Turning Point signals a renewed push for civics education at a moment when many argue that civic literacy in the U.S. is under threat. According to various surveys, many Americans struggle with basic knowledge about government structure, constitutional rights, and the foundations of American democracy. A cohesive, well-resourced coalition could help address those gaps—if executed thoughtfully and inclusively.
That said, the initiative also raises several questions and considerations:
- Balance & Perspective: With many of the coalition’s member organizations having known ideological leanings, it will be important to ensure the curriculum and resources provided are not narrowly partisan but rather present multiple perspectives on historical and civic issues.
- Access & Reach: Rural areas, underfunded school districts, and communities with fewer resources may need tailored support to participate meaningfully.
- Sustainability: Civic education efforts often begin with enthusiasm but then fade; maintaining momentum and funding over the long term will be a challenge.
- Impact Measurement: To validate the coalition’s success, there should be clear metrics — e.g. gains in students’ civic knowledge, participation in civic activities, service learning, or local voter engagement.
Suggestions for Maximizing Success
To make the USA New Study Turning Point a durable and effective force, here are some suggestions:
- Develop a Nonpartisan Curriculum Framework
Create a core civic curriculum vetted by scholars across the political spectrum. Include modules on constitutional principles, civil rights, government functions, and civic engagement. Make space for debate and discussion of historical controversies. - Provide Teacher Training & Professional Development
Offer free or low-cost training workshops to teachers so that they feel confident leading civic education. Develop toolkits, lesson plans, and multimedia resources to lower the barriers to adoption. - Ensure Local & Community Partnerships
Work with local civic groups, libraries, historical societies, and community centers to hold events and involve parents, elders, and civic leaders. Grassroots buy-in can amplify impact beyond the classroom. - Focus on Under-Resourced Schools
Prioritize support (materials, funding, staff) to schools in underserved areas. Offer virtual events or traveling teams for districts that cannot host large events. - Leverage Technology & Digital Platforms
Develop interactive online modules, mobile apps, podcasts, and virtual speaker events to reach students wherever they are. A strong digital presence is key in the modern age. - Set Clear Metrics & Publish Annual Reports
Measure outcomes such as knowledge improvement, civic participation, and community engagement. Publish transparent annual reports to build credibility, encourage improvements, and attract further support. - Encourage Student-Led Projects
Promote civic engagement through student councils, mock government, service learning, or local civic improvement projects. Application-based grants or mini-awards can incentivize participation. - Foster Bipartisan & Inclusive Voices
Invite voices from across the ideological spectrum into panels and discussion, ensuring that students are exposed to a diversity of civic viewpoints. - Plan for Longevity & Funding
Secure multi-year funding from public, private, and philanthropic sources. Create an endowment or reserve to buffer against political changes or funding shifts.
