Commonwealth Foundation Joins National Coalition to Advance Civics Education

The Commonwealth Foundation has partnered with a broad coalition of organizations and the U.S. Department of Education to strengthen civics education nationwide.

On Constitution Day, the U.S. Department of Education—in partnership with the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), Turning Point USA, Hillsdale College, and more than 40 other leading organizations—announced the launch of the America 250 Civics Education Coalition. The Commonwealth Foundation is proud to be among the national and state-based partners advancing this historic initiative to renew patriotism, strengthen civic knowledge, and prepare the nation for its 250th anniversary.

Megan Martin, the Commonwealth Foundation’s chief operating officer and general counsel, represented the Commonwealth Foundation during the initiative’s kickoff event. A longtime champion of civics education, Martin underscored the coalition’s importance:

Improving civics education is essential to preserving our republic. Future generations must be taught to love America, understand our history, and fight to defend our freedoms. I’m proud to be part of the America 250 Civics Education Coalition’s important work.

Martin’s remarks reflected not only her current leadership role but also her career-long commitment to civic engagement. As the commonwealth’s first female legislative parliamentarian, she spearheaded several initiatives—including overseeing the renovation of the Capitol Welcome Center and establishing the Senate Library Museum—designed to educate visitors, students, and citizens about Pennsylvania’s history, legislative process, and democratic traditions.

The coalition brings together more than 40 organizations—including the Heritage Foundation, the Goldwater Institute, the James Madison Institute, the Center for Education Reform, the Claremont Institute, and the Texas Public Policy Foundation—under the leadership of AFPI and with oversight by Education Secretary Linda McMahon. Together, these partners will promote programs that make civics education engaging, accessible, and inspiring. Planned initiatives include a Fundamental Liberties College Speaker Series and a 50-state campus tour aimed at equipping students with a deeper understanding of America’s founding ideals.

McMahon stressed the urgency of this collaboration:

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

For the Commonwealth Foundation, joining the coalition is a natural extension of its mission to advance freedom and opportunity in Pennsylvania. Strong civic knowledge ensures that citizens not only cherish their rights but also understand their responsibilities in a free society.

As America prepares to mark 250 years since its founding, the Commonwealth Foundation is proud to stand with its partners to strengthen civics education and renew a culture of liberty for Pennsylvania and beyond.

For more information on the initiative, please visit www.america250civics.com.