COLTS NECK – Cedar Drive Middle School will host U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon on Friday, December 5, as part of a nationwide “History Rocks!” tour promoting civics and American history education.
The visit is tied to the America 250 Civics Education Coalition, a partnership involving the U.S. Department of Education and dozens of national organizations including the America First Policy Institute, Turning Point USA, Hillsdale College and others. The “History Rocks!” initiative aims to expand students’ access to high-quality history instruction that highlights key ideas, individuals and events that shaped the nation.
Cedar Drive Middle School was selected to represent New Jersey on the 50-state tour. Superintendent MaryJane Garibay said the honor reflects both student achievement and the community’s support for civic learning.
“This visit provides an extraordinary opportunity to highlight the remarkable work of our students, educators, support staff and Board of Education,” Garibay said. She also credited the Colts Neck Township Board of Education and President Angelique Volpe for early outreach that helped bring the national recognition to the district.
During the visit, Secretary McMahon and her team will participate in a school-wide assembly, visit classrooms, tour student showcases and meet with district officials, teachers and selected students. A small-group roundtable with the Board of Education is also planned.
District staff have been working with federal partners to coordinate the visit since receiving official notification, according to Principal Colin Rigby. Families with questions were encouraged to contact him directly.
Garibay said the event underscores the district’s dedication to “rich, engaging history instruction that strengthens appreciation for the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.”
