Workshops & Assistance

Participate in a student or teacher workshop to learn more about National History Day, the annual theme and how to put together a great project.

Contest Kickoff

Join us at the National History Day Kickoff to learn about using primary sources, newspapers and archives to research your topic and explore the various ways to present your work: as an exhibit, a website, a documentary, a paper or a performance. You will also receive an overview of this year’s contest, theme and rules. The National History Day Kickoff is held each year in the fall.

History Labs

Get a jump start on your National History Day project and register for a History Lab this fall. History Labs are research open houses for students, teachers and parents to discover primary and secondary resources, special collections and to network with local librarians and historians. Each History Lab will start with an introduction to the library’s collection and provide a flexible time frame for attendees to explore. You are welcome to bring topic ideas and research materials to begin working on your project analysis. 

Mentorship Program

Get assistance with research questions, project construction and feedback on your project and/or required written materials. Submit the mentorship request online and we will pair you with a National History Day in Iowa mentor.

Student Workshops

Attend a one-day, hands-on workshop to improve your National History Day skills. Jump-start your project by learning about the 2018 theme, “Conflict and Compromise,” start your research, and more. History Day 101 workshops are held in late summer each year. 

Teachers Institute

Improve your National History Day strategies at this two-day, hands-on, workshop. Learn about the 2018 theme, “Conflict and Compromise,” explore project categories, learn research strategies and meet other teachers from across the state. Current and prospective National History Day teachers and district coordinators are invited to attend.