Maricopa County has announced its participation in America250, a nationwide event marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors is encouraging residents to take part in activities that reflect on the nation’s founding and celebrate shared values.
“America250 is an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s history while looking forward to the future we are building together,” said Chair Kate Brophy McGee, District 3. “Maricopa County’s programs will encourage civic pride and meaningful engagement from residents across our region.”
Supervisor Thomas Galvin, District 2, added: “It’s an honor to be selected by Chair Brophy McGee to lead Maricopa County’s celebration of America250. Commemorating 250 years of American history is about recognizing the role local communities play in shaping our nation. Maricopa County is proud to honor the principles of freedom, civic responsibility, and community that have defined our country for 250 years. We invite residents of all ages to participate in these celebrations and share in this historic milestone.”
The county has outlined several initiatives as part of its America250 commemoration:
– An essay contest will invite students and teachers throughout Maricopa County to submit essays reflecting on American history, civic responsibility, and the future. Winners will be recognized at a future Board of Supervisors meeting.
– A Patriotic Pets Contest will allow residents to submit photos of their pets dressed in patriotic themes via the county website. Selected entries will be featured on social media with a special showcase highlighting community spirit. The Animal Care & Control department will also spotlight shelter pets.
– The Administration Building at 301 W. Jefferson St. will be lit up in red, white, and blue during designated celebration periods.
– Information about these efforts can be found on a dedicated webpage at Maricopa.Gov/America250.
County departments such as the Library District and Parks and Recreation Department plan additional activities over the coming months.
Recent data shows that education remains a challenge for many students in Maricopa County. In the 2022-23 school year, nearly two-thirds (62.9%) of students in grades 3 through 8 did not pass the mathematics section of state assessments (source). Similarly, 65% of high schoolers failed the mathematics portion of the ACT (source). For English language assessments during that same period, more than half (57.2%) of younger students failed (source), as did 57% of high schoolers (source). However, there were some improvements noted for the following year: In 2023-24, approximately one-third (33.9%) of high schoolers passed math on the ACT (source), while about 36% of third through eighth graders passed math on state tests (source).
The county encourages residents to check its landing page regularly for updates on upcoming events related to America250.
