What Teachers are Saying About Participation in National History Day

For more than 25 years, National History Day has been a catalyst for teachers interested in:

Engaging All Students

“ National History Day has become one of my most valued tools as a teacher…it excites in students who are less willing and/or able to excel in traditional leaning modes an interest and love for learning. Year after year I have observed these students and noticed a boost in their self esteem and test scores.”

Barbara Allen, Denver, CO

“ National History Day has given me the opportunity to challenge my advanced
students.”

Danny Corbett, Copperas Cove, TX

“ My class is made up of students from very diverse backgrounds, both economically and culturally, and every student raved about their NHD experience. My school not only uses the program as a teaching device in the classrooms, but it is a real school/community program.”

Cynthia Mostoller, Washington, D.C.

Meeting Standards and Enriching the Classroom

“ After participating in NHD I will never look at another history textbook in the way I did before. Now I see the textbook as a jumping off point. I know we can study the textbook summaries of history, put our finger down on any spot and say, “Let’s look into this some more.” Even with my seventh graders our class discussions have become much more analytical. I still want them to know the date of the Declaration of Independence, but just as importantly I want them to be able to articulate the impact of that declaration.”

Ardie Nelson, Sandstone, MN

“ National History Day has improved thinking skills, kept kids’ interest levels high and allowed for individuality.”

Kathy Paul, Clive, IA

“ National History Day has raised the level of student performance and permitted students to achieve beyond their expectations.”

Peter Schutzler, Allentown, PA

See also: A Teacher's First Experience (PDF)

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