About the program:
National History Day (NHD) is a nationally acclaimed academic enrichment program that promotes the study of history in our schools. National History Day does for history what the Science/STEM Fair does for science. Students create exhibits, documentaries, performances, websites, and papers about a topic related to the annual NHD theme. This year’s theme is Rights and Responsibilities in History. After formulating a topic, students conduct research and represent the details and concepts of their research in a final project. This year, approximately 800 students will participate in the contest at Selby Library, with judges from the community who will evaluate their projects and help them practice their interview skills. On February 22, 2025, community members will spend their Saturday helping our students learn and support them as they showcase their research.
Financial Support / Donation Information:
Support is needed to cover the cost of student prizes, student scholarships to attend the state contest in Tallahassee in May, a contest banner, and general contest expenses.
If you decide to sponsor this experience for our students, please allocate a check to Sarasota County School District with “History Day Contest” on the memo line and mail it to the following address: Sarasota County Schools, Attn: Finance, 1960 Landings Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34231.
Judging Information: You do not need a background in history. A variety of expertise is valued and appreciated. Judges receive some materials in advance to become familiar with the evaluation materials and begin reviewing the projects.
The 2024 Sarasota County History Day Contest will be held on Saturday, February 22, at the Selby Public Library.
Judge’s Check-in: 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM (breakfast provided)
Judge’s Training: 8:15 AM - 9:30 AM - You will receive your judging materials at this time.
Judging: 9:30 AM-2:30 PM (judging times vary based on the category and are subject to change)
All judges receive training the morning of the event, and breakfast and lunch are provided. The only requirement is that you be an approved Level 1 volunteer for Sarasota County Schools. You must register for approval by Monday, February 5.
If you are willing to judge the Sarasota County Schools History Day Contest on February 22, please complete the online registration form by February 5: 2025 Sarasota County History Day Contest Judge Registration Form. You must use a valid email address you check often. Event details will be provided by February 12.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Jaso at Jennifer.Jaso@sarasotacountyschools.net.