Milwaukee Montessori School

Is Your Civics Knowledge on Par with an MMS Graduate?

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Oct 10, 2024

Upon graduating from Milwaukee Montessori School (MMS), your student is likely more prepared to be an engaged citizen than many college graduates! But the question is, are you as prepared as an MMS student?


The state of civics education in America is alarming. Many schools fall short in teaching the fundamentals of how our government operates, and this lack of knowledge has serious implications. In fact, our weakened civics education system could be one of the reasons our democracy feels so fragile today. Citizens who don't understand how their government works are more vulnerable to disinformation, propaganda, and political manipulation.

One striking example of this knowledge gap comes from Professor Kevin Dopf’s classroom. Every year, according to the LA Times, Dopf has his students take the same USCIS Naturalization Test that immigrants must pass to become U.S. citizens.


So, how do these natural-born American students fare on the test?


"Only 35% of my students pass," Dopf says. "The rest of them are clueless. I mean, they're just clueless."


At MMS, we believe in setting a much higher standard for civic education. That’s why every Junior High student must take the 100-question Naturalization Test and score no less than 90% to graduate. This rigorous requirement ensures that MMS graduates understand the core principles of American democracy and how the government functions.

For the past decade, every MMS student has passed the test, demonstrating that they are knowledgeable, engaged citizens ready to participate in and contribute to society. They leave our school equipped with the tools to recognize misinformation and critically assess political narratives, ultimately strengthening the foundations of our democracy.


We believe the future of our country depends on well-informed citizens—and it starts with educating them from a young age.

Think You’re as Informed as an MMS Graduate?


Test your civics knowledge! Take ten sample questions from the Naturalization Test by clicking here.


Together, we can empower the next generation of American leaders. Help us build a stronger, more informed future.


How You Can Help:


By supporting MMS through donations to our Annual Fund, you’re investing in the future of American democracy. Your contribution helps us continue to produce students who are not only academically strong but also civically engaged and responsible citizens.

Donate Here
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