Herzog Foundation Participates in U.S. Department of Education’s “History Rocks!” Tour at Northland Christian School
The Herzog Foundation joined the U.S. Department of Education and state leaders this week at Northland Christian School in Missouri as part of the nationwide History Rocks! Trail to Independence Tour, a 50-state initiative commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
The event brought together students, educators, and national and state leaders to emphasize the importance of civic literacy and the role of education in preserving American freedom. Northland Christian School—part of the Herzog Foundation’s growing network of Christian schools and founded by Herzog Foundation Vice Chairman John Elliott—served as the Missouri stop on the national tour.
U.S. Department of Education Deputy Assistant Secretary Marianna Davidovich encouraged students to recognize the power of education in sustaining liberty.
“Our founders knew that the most powerful weapon wasn’t a musket or a cannon. It was an educated mind,” Davidovich said. “You are building the skills and character needed to keep our Constitutional Republic strong for the next 250 years.”
Missouri Lt. Gov. David Wasinger also addressed students, urging them to understand and defend the nation’s founding principles.
“Freedom does not run on autopilot,” Wasinger said. “It depends on people who understand it, believe in it, and are willing to stand up for it.”
As a member of the America 250 Civics Education Coalition, the Herzog Foundation was honored to contribute to the program. Spencer Bone, Director of Ambassadors & Strategic Relationships, spoke directly to students about the deeper purpose of education.
“Education is not just about facts and dates,” Bone said. “It’s about building character and preparing you to carry the responsibility of freedom. The future of this country will be shaped by what you believe and who you become.”
The event also featured student participation, including a speech from Northland Christian sophomore Kacie Montgomery, who encouraged her peers to thoughtfully engage in civic life.
“When we choose to speak with courage and awareness, we are not only exercising our freedoms—we are helping shape the future of our country,” Montgomery said.
In addition to keynote remarks, students participated in interactive activities, including trivia competitions and a live demonstration from The American Journey Experience, which displayed rare historical artifacts connected to the nation’s founding.
The Herzog Foundation remains committed to supporting Christian schools like Northland Christian, equipping educators, and strengthening civic understanding through a biblical worldview. Through partnerships, training programs, and national initiatives, the Foundation continues to invest in the next generation of leaders, ensuring that the principles of faith and freedom endure for years to come.
About the Stanley M. Herzog Foundation
The Stanley M. Herzog Charitable Foundation is a charitable foundation dedicated to catalyzing and accelerating the development of quality Christ-centered K-12 education so that families and culture flourish.
Learn more at HerzogFoundation.com.