Over one million students participate in the National History Contest each year. Students choose a historical topic relevant to this years theme. The theme for the contest changes each year. They must then, produce primary and secondary research. Students must look through archives and museums, libraries, conduct oral interviews, and have a choice of visit historical sites. After, the students have evaluated and understood their sources, they have to draw a conclusion. Then finally they will be able to present their work. Students can either present their work as a paper, an exhibit, a website, a performance, or a documentary. Freshman Gioia Miale says,“I would consider participating in this contest because it would be interesting to be there.”

In the Spring, students must enter their work into their local National History Day contests, and their work will be judged and evaluated. If the students work is chosen as one of the finest pieces, the student will move on to their state’s National History Day contest. If the student wins his or her state contest, they will be qualified to attend the Kenneth E. Behring National History Day contest at the University of Maryland at College Park in June. Then students will compete against other students from the United States, American Samoa, Guam, International Schools and Department of Defense Schools in Europe. If the student wins over all he or she will receive an award that fit into the topic that they worked on.