Is Your Civics Knowledge on Par with an MMS Graduate?

New Paragraph

October 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
By Zack Weil May 20, 2025
Whole-Brain Learning: Transforming Math from Abstract to Achievable
Studying Countries, Continents and Ecosystems and the Benefits to Children
By Monica Van Aken, Ed. D May 2, 2025
At Milwaukee Montessori School, learning about the world isn’t just a lesson—it’s an empowering journey toward empathy, understanding, and global citizenship.
Middle School
By Monica Van Aken Ed.D. and Greg Sukowaty April 28, 2025
Help children think big. Find out how STEAM activities and critical thinking build the foundation for tomorrow’s breakthroughs.
MMS Students Excel in Reading While National Scores Fall
By Monica Van Aken April 4, 2025
While national reading scores drop, MMS students continue to outperform expectations with strong literacy and comprehension gains.
On Technology 2025
By Monica Van Aken, Ed.D. March 31, 2025
Explore the biggest tech trends of 2025, from AI to sustainability, and how they’ll shape industries, work, and daily life.
How Easy is it to Write Comedy?
By Monica Van Aken, Ed.D. November 21, 2024
Discover what it really takes to write great comedy—from timing and structure to the challenge of making people laugh.
Who are these kids? – A Backyard Goat Experience for MMS Students
By Zack Weil October 7, 2024
Read more to learn why goats have taken over our backyard. Their presence is good for the environment, educational, and entertaining.
Master Animation & Art | Techniques, Tips, and Inspiration
By Zack Weil October 7, 2024
Explore how animation and traditional art blend to tell powerful stories and inspire imagination across all ages.
Recess: A Favorite Part of School Day at Milwaukee Montessori School
By Zack Weil August 26, 2024
Explore the power of play during recess—boosting learning, building friendships, and energizing kids every day.
Empathy and Literature
By Zack Weil July 23, 2024
Discover how reading fiction enhances empathy, emotional intelligence, and human connection across cultures and experiences.
Show More