The Oakland Public Schools

Four teams of Valley Middle School students are advancing to the state finals of National History Day after participating in the Northern Regional Competition held at Seton Hall University on February 27, 2010. The theme of National History Day is Innovation in History: Action and Impact.

Colin Whittle an, eighth grader, presented his research and documentary on the jet engine. His investigation led him to the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum where he interviewed an aviation historian. He also interviewed Ian Whittle, the son of jet engine inventor Frank Whittle and Chris Von Ohain, the son of the German inventor, Hans  Von Ohain.

Jade Pace, Alex Hutcherson, and Julia Hansen found primary research for their exhibit on the submarine at the Paterson Museum and the USS Ling. They also interviewed a submariner.

Keith Riley, Colette Barca, Meredith Rivas, and Chiara Dibella explored the innovations of Les Paul.  They received responses from curators at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and acquaintances of Les Paul. They also met with one of his close friends who brought some of Les Paul’s guitars.

Sidney Anderson and Nia Burrell created an exhibit about the telescope. They interviewed astronomers and visited an observatory.

The state qualifiers are refining their research and preparing for the state finals on May 1, 2010, at William Paterson University.

National History Day is the largest history education program in the country whose mission is to provide students with opportunities to learn historical content and develop research, thinking and communication skills through the study of history. In the past, several Valley Middle School entries have advanced to the national finals in Washington, DC.