Hundreds of students used "live" performances, artistic displays, and vivid documentaries to celebrate history on March 3 during Sacramento County History Day at Rosemont High School in Sacramento.
With "Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History" as the 2012 theme, students presented their historical exhibits, performances, research papers, video documentaries, and interactive websites. Students earning honors in Sacramento are eligible to participate in the California History Day competition, scheduled for April 27-29 at the Riverside Convention Center. National History Day will be held in June at the University of Maryland.
The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) administers Sacramento County History Day along with the Center for Sacramento History, the Sacramento History Foundation, and representatives from numerous area historical, preservation, education, and civic organizations. The local event is associated with National History Day, which is a yearlong educational program that encourages elementary, middle and high school students to explore local, state, national and world history.
"This great event helps students become more interested in history and it helps teachers teach history more effectively," said Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon. "Through Sacramento County History Day, students develop skills in historical research and critical thinking, as well as improve reading and writing skills."
In addition to teaching the relevance and importance of history for all grade levels and ages, the program helps students develop problem-solving skills, oral and written communication and presentation skills, self-esteem and confidence, and a sense of responsibility for and involvement in the democratic process.
Sacramento County History Day Categories
- Two-Dimensional Displays (4th/5th grade)
- Documentary
- Exhibit
- Paper
- Performance
- Website
At each competition level, the student projects are evaluated by history experts and educators. Competition divisions include Elementary (grades 4 & 5), Junior (grades 6-8), and Senior (grades 9-12).
For more information about Sacramento County History Day, visit the Center for Sacramento History website, or call (916) 228-2660.
Sacramento County History Day 2012 Multimedia
(Courtesy of Center for Sacramento History)