National History Day is a project-based learning experience that aligns with numerous state standards for social studies and ELA. Students grades 6-12 research topics related to an annual theme, then present their findings as documentaries, exhibit boards, papers, performances, or websites. NEW this year, students grades 4-5 research Montana history topics related to the annual theme and create posters to show their research. The 2024-2025 theme is Rights & Responsibilities in History.

Students grades 4-5 can share projects with their school and community. Students grades 6-12 can also compete with their projects in regional, state, or even national competitions. This year, regional competitions take place in Kalispell (February 8), Miles City (February 8), and Helena (February 15, tent.) and the state competition takes place in Bozeman (April 12).

Teachers grades 4-12 can get started by filling out the teacher interest form and signing up for professional development. Twice a month, NHD-MT co-coordinator, MTHS historian, and former classroom teacher Dr. Melissa Hibbard guides teachers through the steps of the History Day process with ready-to-use classroom resources.

Anyone who likes history and supporting students can sign up to judge at one of the regional or state competitions.

Librarians & research specialists can sign up to help Montana students conduct research (email Melissa directly at nationalhistorydaymt@gmail.com)

Thanks to a grant from the Library of Congress, teachers grades 6-12 can apply to become an NHD Teacher Fellow. Selected teachers will receive training in historical research, primary source analysis, Library of Congress resources, Indian Education for All, as well as a $500 stipend, up to 48 renewal units, and travel support to in-person events. Apply by October 14.

Thanks to support from the Montana 250th Commission, teachers grades 4-5 can apply to join a cohort of elementary educators doing the History Day Poster Contest. Selected teachers will receive training in historical research, primary source analysis, and poster construction, as well as a $250 stipend and 3 renewal units.  Apply by November 1.