Florida History Fair is Now Florida History Day

Tallahassee –

Florida History Day (FHD) is now the new name for the Florida History Fair program hosted by the Department of State’s Museum of Florida History. The change brings the name of the program in line with other National History Day (NHD) affiliates. A new logo for the program features an updated look with vibrant colors that match the characteristics of the Sunshine State. 

“I am proud of the accomplishments of a program that helps Florida students attain valuable life-long skills,” said Secretary of State Ken Detzner. “The updated name and logo are further signs of the program’s continued success and efforts to reach even more Florida students.”

The new logo for Florida History Day

The Museum has coordinated FHD since the 1988–89 school year. The program promotes history in the classroom by offering students the resources and support to do original research about people, ideas, and events of the past. Students choose a topic based on an annual theme selected by NHD. The theme for 2016–17 is “Taking a Stand in History.” Last year was a record year for FHD as 69,219 students from 33 counties participated across the state. The program continues to grow as more schools and teachers across Florida become aware of the benefits it provides. Findings from a multi-year study released in 2011 by NHD show that participants are better writers, critical thinkers, managers of their time, and team collaborators. Florida students demonstrate their excellence with these new skills by routinely winning medals and other recognitions at the national competition.

The program would not be possible without the teachers, coordinators, organizations and judges who have supported students over the years. More information on the program and how to get involved can be found at floridahistoryday.com. The future of the program is bright as more people become supporters in the promotion of history and the success of Florida students.   

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About Florida History Day
Florida History Day is part of National History Day (NHD). NHD was established in 1974 to promote history in the classroom by offering students the means and encouragement to research people, ideas, and events of the past. The 2016–17 theme is “Taking a Stand in History.” After analyzing and interpreting the information they have gathered, students express their findings in a paper, exhibit, performance, documentary, or website. More than 69,200 students participated in the 2015–16 Florida History Day. For more information, visit floridahistoryday.com.