What is Oklahoma National History Day?

Oklahoma National History Day (ONHD) is a highly regarded academic organization for elementary and secondary school students.

Each year more than 5,000 students, encouraged by hundreds of teachers statewide, participate in the ONHD contest. Students choose historical topics related to a theme and conduct extensive primary and secondary research through libraries, archives, museums, oral history interviews and historic sites. After analyzing and interpreting their sources and drawing conclusions about their topics’ significance in history, students present their work in original papers, exhibits, performances, websites and documentaries. These products are entered into competitions in the spring at local, state and national levels where they are evaluated by professional historians and educators.

In addition to discovering the exciting world of the past, ONHD also helps students develop the following attributes that are critical for future success:

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Research and reading skills
• Oral and written communication and presentation skills
• Self esteem and confidence
• A sense of responsibility for and involvement in the democratic process

The Oklahoma National History Day Program not only teaches students about history, it causes them to participate in history! It's not just a day, it's an experience!