One of the aims of the National History Day contest is to promote critical inquiry among 6-12 grade students into historical topics related to an annual theme that is both broad in its scale and scope. This year’s theme, Communication in History: The Key to Understanding, asked students to think about and explore how the methods and modes of communication have changed over time and how they have shaped our present. It encouraged students to think about how understanding is directly related to ways information is communicated. Moreover, in researching the important role communication plays in history, students are taught to develop a broader understanding of the historical context of the period under study.

Eighty-six students from seven different schools in Springfield and surrounding areas, and from the classrooms of thirteen teachers participated in this year’s virtual regional contest. The decision to participate was not an easy one for many teachers this year and the History Department would like to extend its appreciation to the teachers who supported their students as they researched, analyzed, and completed history day projects. We would like to acknowledge their commitment to teaching historical thinking and inquiry.

Congratulations to the winners of the 2021 History Day Contest in Springfield. These students will be advancing to the state competition, held virtually in April.

2021 Winners of History Day Contest in Springfield