Through publications and education programs NHD teachers are trained to move students beyond textbooks, and expand their classrooms to include libraries, museums, and archives. Teachers use the annual National History Day competition to engage students in historical research just as scholars do. The NHD program combines both historical content and the process of historical inquiry. This way, both teachers and students learn valuable research, critical thinking, and presentation skills, as well as a solid understanding of the history of their country and the world. NHD will lead more than 700,000 students nationwide to new discoveries of historical frontiers in politics, geography, science, space, presidential powers, ideologies, and many other ideas.
Students begin to prepare for the competition soon after the school year begins.
NHD is the Olympics for academics, said 2000 Teacher Excellence Foundation winner, Vaughn Dailey of Pennsylvania. This is what we should be highlighting in education not the violence in school. This event is something these kids will never forget. NHD is not just a day, but an experience that truly lasts a lifetime. They may also decide to enter as individuals or as a member of a group.