Northwest Middle School students have been hard at work researching and creating projects for this year’s National History Day competition. The theme, "Rights and Responsibilities in History," challenged students to explore historical topics through the lens of how individuals and groups have fought for rights and upheld responsibilities throughout history.

This is no ordinary school project—participation in National History Day requires rigorous research, critical thinking, and analytical writing. Since August, students have examined primary and secondary sources, crafted arguments, and refined their projects to tell compelling historical stories. The competition culminates in an interview with judges, a challenging but rewarding experience that helps students articulate their findings and take pride in their hard work.

On competition day, 83 projects were entered for school judging, including exhibits, websites, papers, and a documentary. The library was transformed into a history fair where students presented their projects and answered judges' questions about their research process. Despite their nerves, students gained confidence as they shared their knowledge and passion for history.

Celebrating Success: Regional and State Qualifiers

We are thrilled to announce that 13 students received awards at Northwest Middle School’s National History Day school competition

Click here to see the award list..

Additionally, 31 students advanced to the Salt Lake Regional History Day Contest on March 12th.

Click here for a full list of regional qualifiers.

Of those, five students have qualified for the Utah State History Day Contest, where they will represent Northwest Middle School at the highest level:

State Contest Qualifiers:

• Ava West – Mrs. Ida B. Wells: Princess of the Press
• Henilieta Vaenuku – Japanese American Internment
• Hadassah Rodriguez – The East L.A. Walkouts
• Hadassah Florreich, Alissia Manuotua, Lulu Suliafu – Queen Salote: Making a Difference in Tonga
• Spencer Brown and Luis Fonte Trujillo – Charles Darwin and Evolution

Additionally, the Judge’s Choice Award was given to:

• Isabella Salazar Medina and David Medina Gonzalez – Simon Bolivar: El Libertador

The Lasting Impact of National History Day

Participating in National History Day challenges students to go beyond memorization—it teaches them to think critically, analyze historical events, and make connections between the past and present. Through this experience, they build valuable research and communication skills that will serve them throughout their academic and professional careers.

We are so proud of all our students for their dedication and hard work. Whether they advance to the next level or not, every student who participated in National History Day has gained a deeper understanding of history and the skills to engage with the world as informed citizens.

Congratulations to all our students, and best of luck to those moving on to the state competition!

Click here for photo gallery.