Vermont History Day
Vermont History Day is an exciting education program that encourages students in grades 5-12 to study history and expand their knowledge. It also provides the opportunity to share the knowledge they have gained from their historical research by creating projects for the state contest. Vermont History Day is the state affiliated of National History Day.
Working individually, or in small groups, students choose a topic related to the National History Day annual theme, which in 2018 is "Conflict and Compromise in History." The topic can relate to Vermont history, United States history, or world history. Students conduct research in libraries, museums, and historical societies, and interview experts on their topic. Using their new knowledge and incorporating primary sources, the students develop their projects in the format of their choice: exhibits, websites, documentaries, performances, or papers.
Vermont History Day is strategically coordinated by the Vermont Historical Society, working diligently to support student participation int he program. Vermont History Day culminates with approximately 300 students presenting over 200 projects at the annual state competition in April. Eighty educators, historians, and other community members serve as judges for the projects and provide feedback to students. From this competition, approximately fifty Vermont students qualify to participate in the National History Day contest in June. As a capstone, students learn to conduct historical research and share their work in creative ways.
