West Fargo Elementary Celebrates America's 250th with 'History Rocks' Tour

More than 200 students participated in the U.S. Department of Education's interactive history event ahead of the country's milestone anniversary.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:20pm

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A bold, graphic illustration of an American flag icon repeated in a colorful pop art grid, conveying the patriotic energy of a nationwide history celebration.The 'History Rocks' tour brings interactive American history lessons to students across the country ahead of the nation's 250th birthday celebration.Fargo Today

Westside Elementary in West Fargo, North Dakota hosted the U.S. Department of Education's 'History Rocks' tour on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Over 200 students heard from senior education advisor Katherine Gorka and American Legion representatives, and participated in U.S. history trivia games as part of the festivities leading up to America's 250th birthday.

Why it matters

The 'History Rocks' tour is part of a nationwide effort by the U.S. Department of Education to engage students in learning about American history and celebrating the country's upcoming 250th anniversary. By bringing this interactive event to a local elementary school, the department aims to spark students' interest in civic education and national pride ahead of the milestone celebration.

The details

During the 'History Rocks' event at Westside Elementary, students heard from Katherine Gorka, the U.S. Department of Education's senior advisor for civic education, as well as representatives from the American Legion's Fargo District No. 1. The students also participated in several rounds of U.S. history trivia games, testing their knowledge of the country's past.

  • The 'History Rocks' tour event took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at Westside Elementary in West Fargo, North Dakota.
  • America will be celebrating its 250th anniversary in a couple months.

The players

Katherine Gorka

The U.S. Department of Education's senior advisor for civic education, who spoke to the students at the 'History Rocks' event.

American Legion Fargo's District No. 1

The local American Legion chapter that also participated in the 'History Rocks' event at Westside Elementary.

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What they’re saying

“All across this country, kids like you are going to be celebrating America's 250th. There's going to be fireworks, parades, parties, all kinds of history events, lots of fun things.”

— Katherine Gorka, Senior Advisor for Civic Education, U.S. Department of Education

What’s next

Students at Westside Elementary will likely continue learning about American history and preparing for the country's 250th anniversary celebrations in the coming months.

The takeaway

The 'History Rocks' tour demonstrates the U.S. Department of Education's commitment to engaging students in civic education and fostering a sense of national pride, even at the local level. By bringing this interactive event to a West Fargo elementary school, the department is helping to ensure the next generation of Americans is excited and informed about their country's history and milestones.