Mick argued in a press release that schools should play a central role in promoting assimilation, describing education as a means of building shared civic understanding among Americans from different backgrounds.

The release said schools have responsibilities beyond academic instruction, including passing on traditions, civic duties and values intended to connect communities. It framed immigration as a longstanding part of the country’s history and said immigrants have contributed talents, ideas and cultural traditions while adopting principles presented as broadly American.

Mick’s statement characterized assimilation through education as an inclusive process rather than a rejection of cultural heritage. It said learning a shared language, understanding national history, respecting democratic institutions and participating in civic life can establish common ground.

“Schools are uniquely positioned” to teach personal responsibility, respect for others, community involvement and a “positive moral compass,” the release said. It argued those values can help people from differing backgrounds work together while retaining the freedoms and opportunities that attract immigrants to the United States.

The release also linked immigration policy to expectations of civic participation. It said a healthy immigration system can coexist with a strong expectation of assimilation, while maintaining that cultural diversity can enrich society.

Mick warned that refusal to participate in what the release called a shared civic culture could create divisions. The statement did not identify specific education policies, curriculum changes, legislation or enforcement measures that would be used to advance its proposed approach.

The comments come as immigration remains a high-salience national political issue, alongside cost of living and executive power. Debates over immigration have often included competing views over integration, language instruction, civic education and the extent to which public institutions should promote a common national culture.

Mick, who holds no current office, said educational institutions should emphasize assimilation as “positive and inclusive” while preparing future generations to contribute to a more unified country.