National History Day judges needed

Students review their NHD presentation
Photo by Don Wilson

Every year, middle and high school students from our area take part in a competition known as National History Day.

They conduct extensive research on a topic they choose, based on a national theme, and enter projects in one of five categories: research papers, performances, documentaries, websites, and exhibits.

It’s a valuable experience that teaches students not just about history, but about the process of doing research, and how to organize and present their findings.

The competition requires local volunteer judges, and that’s where you come in. Volunteers are needed to judge documentaries, exhibits, or performances at the regional contest, which takes place at Northshore Middle School in Bothell on March 9th.

Students doing a NHD performance
for the judges.
Photo by Don Wilson

If you are not free on that day, they also need people who can judge research papers or websites (which can be done at your convenience from home) during the month of February.

The good news is, you don’t have to be a historian to be a judge! You just have to be somebody with an interest in history … and in helping young people. You’ll probably also learn a thing or two from the students’ hard work.

The North Puget Sound History Day regional contest includes schools from Ballard and North Seattle, around the top of Lake Washington, to Bothell, Kenmore, and Woodinville. Winners from our region advance to the state competition, held in late April. The top finishers there participate in the National competition, held in June at the University of Maryland.

You can get more information about the contest and how you can participate HERE