A team of judges review a student's work at Shoreline Center. Photo by Don WilsonTo strengthen my faith in the younger generation’s ability to be good stewards of our heritage, I volunteered to be a judge at the 15th annual North Puget Sound Regional History Day competition in Shoreline on March 19. The regional contest is part of National History Day, an academic program that engages half a million elementary and secondary school students from around the country every year.

To take part, students chose a topic related to this year’s theme, “Innovation in History: Impact and Change.” They performed primary and secondary research at libraries, archives and museums; conducted oral history interviews; and visited historic sites. After analyzing and interpreting their sources, students drew conclusions about the significance of their topic, and then presented their work in one of five ways: as a paper, an exhibit, a performance, a documentary, or a web site.

Early on a Friday morning, 123 judges assembled at the Shoreline Center for orientation, then broke into teams of three to evaluate the work of 556 students. My team interviewed six students and reviewed their entries in the Junior Individual Exhibits category, which includes grades 6-8. When the morning judging was completed, those advancing to the next round were reviewed a second time by new sets of eyes. Students receiving the highest marks at the end of the day compete in the Washington State History Day contest at Bellevue College on May 1. Winners at the state level will be eligible to attend the Kenneth E. Behring National History Day Contest at the University of Maryland at College Park in June.

The students’ work I saw at the regional level was remarkable, showing evidence of extensive research, thoughtful interpretation, and creative presentation. With the regional contest demonstrating that level of expertise, I can only imagine that the students’ work at the state contest will be even more exceptional. If you would like to be part of an event showcasing the best of student history projects from around the state, and one that will boost your confidence in today’s youth, there is still time to volunteer to be a judge. Click here for more information.

A team of judges review a student’s work at Shoreline Center. © Photo by Don Wilson