A thousand years ago, no one could have foreseen the great changes that this millennium would bring to the world. Today, across the nation more than half a million students in grades six through twelve are embarking on a historical adventure to examine how people have struggled to create and react to turning points in history. Wisconsin's students have begun to research the most important events of this millennium for the 26 th annual National History Day competition. Through participation in a series of district, state and national competitions, students will improve their research, presentation and critical thinking skills.
Students begin to prepare for the competition soon after the beginning of the school year.
They brainstorm with their teachers to help choose topics and learn guidelines for entering the competition. Last year students from Wisconsin Rapids, Marshfield, Schofield and Rothschild took part in the contest. According to State History Day Coordinator Charles Clark of UWSP, Stevens Point and Appleton students may also compete this year. National History Day's impact is felt well beyond the more than 600,000 students entered into the competition. Thousands of parents also get involved, making it a family affair.