Michigan History Day (or National History Day in Michigan) is an educational competition designed to encourage students in grades 4-12 to explore historical subjects related to a broad annual theme.  This program allows students the opportunity to learn history in a self-directed hands-on format.  Students choose a topic based on the annual theme and create a project in one of nine catagories: an individual paper, as well as an individual or group exhibit, performance, web page or documentary.  Students who participate in MHD gain not only knowledge but research and research skills that will help them throughout life. The process of creating and then presenting their project to judges and peers allows them to develop necessary public speaking skills and helps to build self-esteem.

Michigan History Day's ultimate goal is to kindle an appreciation of the past among students of today.  The motto of History Day says it all:

It's not just a day,    it's an experience!