More than 140 county secondary students representing 23 middle and high schools were recognized at the Anne Arundel County Regional History Day competition and awards ceremony held last month at Annapolis High School. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the competition.
Focused on the theme, Turning Points in History, students shared their historical knowledge, extensive research, and articulated arguments via various categories and expressions such as, visual exhibits, performances, websites, documentaries, and written assignments. Support for the competition, project exposition, and awards ceremony is provided by Maryland Humanities and The Education Foundation of Anne Arundel County Public Schools.
Middle school students compete at the junior level, while high school students compete at the senior level of any given category. The first- and second-place winners in each category advance to the state level of the competition.
In addition, special awards were given to other exceptional projects that highlight a specific aspect or topic in history. The special awards are sponsored by AACPS, local businesses, organizations and individuals. The special awards include monetary prizes, tours, and commemorative items. Notable sponsors include M&T Bank, the Alduino Family, Maryland Humanities, Historic Annapolis, The League of Women Voters, Watermark, The Annapolis Maritime Museum, Amnesty International, the Bowie Baysox, Educational Systems Federal Credit Union, The University of Maryland, The Maryland Council for Civic and History Education, Chesapeake Arts Center, Kindness Grows Here, and the Anne Arundel County Public Library.
Glen Burnie High School’s Social Studies Department Chair Tracee Simms was named the 2024 History Day Teacher of the Year for her exemplary guidance of teachers and students in the project process at the school level.
The Maryland History Day state competition will be held on May 4, 2024, at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. Winners from the state competition will move on to compete at the national level in June.
The countywide competition is hosted by the AACPS Division of Academics and the Office of Social Studies.
Lists of Awardees
2024 Regional History Day Winners – FIRST PLACE