Last weekend, 16 Frenship ISD middle school students attended the National History Day State Competition in Austin. These students earned their spots after placing at the Regional Competition, and their hard work, research, and creativity paid off, especially for Heritage Middle School student Allison Riley, who was named a top six finalist in the historical paper category.
Now in its sixth year participating in National History Day (NHD), Frenship ISD continues to see progress and success in the statewide academic event.
“This year's group of students were extremely well prepared for the state competition,” said Malli Travis, Coordinator of Social Studies for Frenship ISD. “To have any of our students make the final rounds is always a tremendous accomplishment. We have made great progress in the quality of projects that move forward into the Regional and State competitions.”
Travis emphasized the importance of the NHD program in helping students grow both academically and personally.
“NHD helps students with 21st-century skills through the use of primary sources, research, analysis, critical thinking, and communication,” said Travis. “By implementing these skills in the classroom, students are better readers and writers and are more prepared for the rigorous coursework in higher education.”
Beyond the academics, Travis noted the personal development she sees year after year.
“Each year I see a sense of camaraderie and teamwork grow among students that follows them throughout their years in Frenship,” said Travis. “The friendships they make along both the Regional and State trips foster a community of learners and lifelong support systems.”
Riley stood out in the state competition with her historical paper on Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
“I wrote a historical paper on Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. It was fun to write about and it was inspiring,” said Riley. “I really just loved the idea of a woman refusing to give up her seat on a bus because she felt that she had the right to be there. There was a world against her, but she did what she did anyway because she knew that that was what was right. I love that thought.”
Riley’s paper was the result of extensive research and writing, including over 23 sources, hours in the library and online, and learning how to correctly footnote the entire paper on her own.
“Having Allison place in the final rounds is a tremendous honor for Frenship ISD, Heritage Middle School, Mr. Ryan Thurman, Allison, and her parents,” said Travis. “We could not be prouder of the hard work and dedication Mr. Thurman and Allison poured into her project.”
The projects start early with the 7th grade teachers who support students through the beginning phases of the project. After campus competitions in January, Travis works directly with advancing students to refine their projects and strengthen their presentation skills.
“After the regional competition, we take the feedback and continue the refinement process for the state level. It's a long process but one where I get to build relationships with the students,” said Travis.
Alongside the competition itself, the trip to Austin was filled with meaningful memories for students and staff.
“Every year's trip is unique as is every year's group of students. I love to watch them blossom into the wonderful young leaders they will one day become. We also have fabulous Frenship parents that traveled along the way and supported our trip with snacks, transporting materials, and supervision of students,” said Travis.
One standout moment was being able to watch students from different Frenship ISD middle schools come together and form friendships while learning about history and leadership.
“It was the Tiger Spirit in action,” said Travis.
“I liked being able to explore the campus (University of Texas) because there were a lot of historical things to see,” added Riley.
Frenship ISD is proud of all the students who participated in this year’s National History Day competitions. Great work, students!