Controversy grows over proposed 'History Rocks 250' assembly at junior high school in Chino Hills

CHINO HILLS, Calif. (KABC) -- A planned school assembly celebrating America's 250th anniversary has sparked concern among some parents at Canyon Hills Junior High School, who say they are uneasy about the program's content and the lack of an opt-out option.

The event, titled "History Rocks 250," is scheduled to take place on campus and is described in an email to parents as "interactive, meaningful and fun." However, questions have been raised about the group organizing the presentation and its affiliations.

"As we know propaganda is very slick," one parent said.

Concerns among families stem in part from the program's connection to organizations such as Turning Point USA, Hillsdale College and the America First Policy Institute.

Some parents say they were not given an option to have their children excused from attending the event.

"We are not given the right to opt out," said parent Kristi Hirts. "Many parents have called, and they were told if you do not want your child to sit through this, you can come and pick them up."

The "History Rocks 250" tour is part of the America 250 Civics Education Coalition, an initiative tied to broader efforts to promote civic education ahead of the nation's semi quincentennial. During a previous announcement in September 2025, Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized the importance of patriotism.

"We have to restore this love of patriotism. We have a president who takes the flag and hugs it," McMahon said at the time.

School officials have dismissed concerns about the assembly. Sonja Shaw, president of the Chino Valley Unified School District Board of Education, said the event is simply a patriotic celebration.

"It's a 250th celebration of America's birthday. There's nothing controversial about this," Shaw said.

Shaw also said the district does not offer opt-outs for assemblies and that the content aligns with what students already learn in class.

"I don't see why any parent knowing the truth would even want to opt out of this. This is an assembly; we don't have opt outs. There's nothing being taught that isn't already being taught in our schools," she said.

Despite those assurances, some parents say they remain frustrated by what they describe as a lack of transparency from the district.

"It's been a little surprising for them to keep the secrecy," said parent Corina Gonzales. "I've mentioned before that we have to sign permission slips for them to watch a controversial video, or read a controversial book that's part of their curriculum. Why is it any different for this type of assembly that leans so right wing."

The assembly remains scheduled as planned, with school officials standing by the event and some parents continuing to voice objections.