Education Secretary Linda McMahon visits Near West Side private school

February 6, 2026 - 08:13

U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon brought her national civics tour to a private Christian high school on Chicago's Near West Side this week. During her visit, she engaged directly with students, discussing the foundations of American government and the importance of civic participation.

The Secretary's tour has sparked debate, with supporters applauding the focus on foundational civic knowledge and critics questioning the choice to highlight private, religious institutions during official travels. McMahon emphasized non-partisan themes during her address, urging students to understand the nation's history and structures of government as a key part of their education.

School administrators expressed gratitude for the visit, stating it provided a unique opportunity for their students to interact with a high-ranking federal official. They highlighted their own curriculum's dedication to fostering informed and responsible citizens.

The stop in Chicago is one of several McMahon has made across the country, consistently placing a spotlight on the teaching of civics. The tour aims to encourage a renewed national focus on the subject, though it continues to generate discussion regarding the scope and setting of such a governmental initiative.