Brennan to host Sept. 8 Policy Hearing on civics education in New Hope
Rep. Tim Brennan September 4, 2025 | 8:58 AM
DOYLESTOWN, Sept. 3 – The public is invited to attend a meeting of the PA House Majority Policy Committee, hosted by state Rep. Tim Brennan, D-Bucks, at 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8 at New Hope-Solebury High School on how robust civics education, starting in elementary school and continuing through high school, is key to preserving the country’s democracy and inspiring young people to participate in democratic processes.
In addition to Brennan and other members of the Policy Committee, the bipartisan slate of speakers will include:
- Introduction by Gov. Mark Schweiker, 44th governor of Pennsylvania
Panel 1: PA Civics
- Rep. James Gerlach, former congressman (R), PA-6
- Rep. Joe Hoeffel, former congressman (D), PA-13
Panel 2
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QUICK DETAILS:
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 8
New Hope-Solebury High School: 182 W. Bridge St, New Hope, PA 18938
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The hearing will be held over two sessions from 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Prior to the hearing, Brennan and Schweiker will engage with students in a town hall-style session in the school library. Students will have the chance to ask questions, with some selected for further discussion at the hearing. They’ll also have their own “media session” with Brennan and Schweiker where they may interview the lawmakers for student publications.
Students will also hear from America250PA, the statewide commission established in 2018 to lead Pennsylvania’s commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The commission’s opportunities for students include the Semiquincentennial Scholarship Program, which will award $250,000 to Pennsylvania high school seniors attending in-state colleges and universities during the 2026–2027 academic year. Scholarship recipients will be chosen for their understanding of civic values as we mark 250 years of American independence.
Members of the public who would like to attend the hearing may contact Brennan’s office at 267-884-0395 or RepBrennan@pahouse.net. Attendee names will be provided to the high school ahead of time, and attendees must check in with the school security officer at the outside entrance to the auditorium.
Information about these and other House Democratic Policy Committee hearings can be found at pahouse.com/policy.