Today, I volunteered to be a judge for the Kentucky Statewide National History Day Competition! I served on a team of three to judge individual exhibits, all making an historic argument in the competition theme of “Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas.” Students created incredibly inventive exhibits on themes ranging from Black women’s role in the suffrage movement, the Women’s Army Corps in WWII, and the legacy and use of genetically modified organisms!

I am always astounded at the creativity of engaged students. When I was in high school, I was interested in learning but was bored of classes and only did the bare minimum in my coursework. As an educator, I try to help students unlock an excitement for learning and hope that these students are able to carry their enthusiasm well beyond their classroom walls!

Huge props to the Kentucky Historical Society for putting on such a well-run event. I can’t wait to come back next year!