The Individual in History

Throughout the day, kids from grades 4-12 also enjoyed activities such as sewing a quilt, observing historical reenactments, and viewing signatures from APU's Presidential Signature Collection. More than 700 students participated and there were 2,000 total guests including teachers, parents, and judges. Forty-seven Los Angeles schools participated.

David Landers, assistant professor of teacher education at APU, said, "This is my fourth year coordinating this event at APU and I have enjoyed working with local schools and teachers to help them prepare their students to take part in History Day LA. Having been a Middle School teacher before coming to APU, I know the benefit that students gain from learning how to do historical research and then presenting it to judges. I especially enjoy watching the students interact with all of the historical groups and local museums that participate to make history come alive."

History Day L.A. is part of a national program that asks students to create posters, exhibits, papers, websites, performances, and documentary presentations on a historical theme to be judged by community members and social science professionals. Winners compete at the California History Day in Sacramento, April 30 - May 3. State winners will then travel to the University of Maryland to participate in National History Day in June.