Four Castle Rock High School students showcased their history projects at the prestigious National History Day competition in Washington, D.C., this month.
Tenth graders Quinn Wimpress and Shane Manzano presented their 10-minute documentary, “Crossroads of Change: How the Interstate Highway System Shaped America’s Urban Landscape.” Their project explored how the Interstate Highway System became a pivotal moment in American History, altering the fabric of cities and deepening economic and racial divides. They highlighted the impact on cities such as Seattle and Portland due to the development of I-5.
Quinn and Shane’s documentary won first place at the Washington State History Day Contest in April and advanced to the national level. It was also the only project from Washington State chosen for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture showcase on June 12 and one of just eight senior-level documentaries selected nationwide.
Ninth graders Charlie Myers and Emily Meyers presented their web-based project, “The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory: A Turning Point for Workplace Safety”, which earned second place at the Washington State History Day Contest and advanced them to the national competition.
After presenting their projects and interviewing with national judges, all four students had the opportunity to discuss their work with U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and received a tour of the Capitol from the congresswoman’s staff.
Castle Rock students’ entries were submitted under the guidance of their teachers Miranda Elliott and Stephen Hart.
National History Day, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the teaching and learning of history, coordinates the annual National Contest. Held at the University of Maryland in College Park, the weeklong event features entries from students from all 50 states, US territories, and international schools. After months of research and preparation, and successfully competing at local contests, finalists present their work in front of national judges.
