Students Advance to State History Competitions

March 15th marked Riverside County's 31st History Day, as students from grades 4-12 showcased their papers, exhibits and documentaries about a specific historical theme or event. Students came from school districts all throughout Riverside County for the exhibit and contest. The awards ceremony began at 4 p.m., where over 60 students were recognized. "Everybody here is a winner!" said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools Kenneth M. Young to the students. Students project categories included individual and group 2-D displays, exhibit, and documentaries. The competition was also split up into age groups, with contests for grades 4-5, Junior (6-8), and Senior (9-12). Riverside Mayor Rusty Bailey, who used to be a high school teacher, shared the importance of student, teacher and parent involvement in History Day. "We don't always learn from history, we make the same mistakes over and over again," shared Mayor Bailey who thanked the teachers, parents and staff for their hard work, and gave a special thanks to the students. "Thank you students for educating us about the future!" he said. Among the Moreno Valley Unified School District students awarded were first place winners Herbert Mejia and Skyler Ramon of North Ridge Elementary School. From Vista Heights Middle School, honorees included individual winners Maddison Zipper, Emma Logan, Samuel Hornaday, Skyy Blue, Cythia Lopez, and Kaylin Ng. The team victories included the team of Naomi Marr-Alhamd and Katelyn Sanchez; the team of Faith Bockover, Alyssa Crow, Phoebe Kyle, and Samantha Sudds; the team of Dulce Arce, Jacqueline Cervantes, and Laura Gonzalez; and Casandrah Barcenas, Victoria Ramirez, and Nigah Fatima. Winners from Valley View High School include the teams of Gabriel Baxter, Sharilynn Krikl, Grey Lutz, and Jesus Magallon; and Angeleke Garcia, Diana Garcia, Bayleigh McKinnis, Brittney Murray, and Monique Olivo. Those who won a 3rd, 2nd or 1st place prize will go on to compete in the state finals of the National History Day competition, which will also take place in Riverside from April 24-27.