The School District of Lancaster is proud to celebrate the achievements of our students in the National History Day (NHD) regional competition. Their dedication to research and historical analysis has earned them top placements, securing a spot in the Pennsylvania State Contest on April 12-13 at the University of Scranton.
National History Day is an academic program that encourages students to explore historical topics and present their findings through papers, exhibits, performances, websites, or documentaries. Each year, students engage in extensive research based on a central theme. The 2025 theme, Rights & Responsibilities in History, challenges students to examine historical events through the lens of individual freedoms and societal duties.
Participants spend months analyzing primary and secondary sources, constructing arguments, and presenting their conclusions. Judges evaluate projects based on historical accuracy, interpretation, and connection to the theme.
The following students have demonstrated excellence in historical research and presentation, earning a place in the state competition:
Junior Individual Website
- 1st Place: “I’m not missing a minute of this, It’s the revolution!”: Stonewall Riots of 1969 – Saurab Ghimrie
Junior Group Performance
- 1st Place: The Tale of Two Bootleggers – Silas Slein, Ceasar Rivera-Altruz, Ben Gilburg, and August Eskered-Kroll
- 2nd Place: Morality over Mortality: The Right to Duel – Mia Cubilete, Phoebe Le Duc, Leena Iyengar, Hadley Schuller
Junior Individual Exhibit
- 2nd Place: Philippine-American War: The Battle Between Filipino Rights and U.S. Responsibilities – Austin Booc
- 3rd Place: Manhattan Project – Noah Orozco
Senior Group Documentary
- 2nd Place: Title IX – Yayreliz Reyes and Lleana Martinez
Senior Individual Documentary
- 1st Place: Displacement of Puerto Ricans in Vieques and the Aftereffects – Marcos Blanco
These projects explore a wide range of historical topics, from civil rights movements to scientific advancements. Each student applied strong research skills to connect their topic to the theme.
The Impact of National History Day
NHD helps students build essential skills in research, critical thinking, and communication. They learn how to analyze historical sources, construct evidence-based arguments, and present their findings clearly. The competition also fosters collaboration, creativity, and public speaking, equipping students with valuable skills for future academic and professional endeavors.
By selecting topics that interest them, students engage with history in a personal and meaningful way. They gain a deeper understanding of how past events shape the present and develop an appreciation for historical inquiry.
Next Steps for Our Students
As students prepare for the state competition, they will refine their projects, incorporate feedback, and enhance their presentations. The state contest provides another opportunity to showcase their hard work and compete at a higher level.
We commend our students and their teachers for their dedication. Their success reflects the importance of research, inquiry, and critical thinking in education.
We look forward to cheering them on at the Pennsylvania State Contest. Congratulations to all participants, and best of luck in the next round!
For more information about National History Day, visit nhd.org.