What started as an in-depth history project has turned into passionate presentations, accolades, and government recognition for two Lehigh Valley Academy 6th graders who decided to take on the challenge of the National History Day competition. National History Day is a nonprofit organization that hosts an annual project-based contest for students in middle school and high school. The goal of NHD is to inspire students to study history, conduct meaningful research, and make connections to their own lives and the times in which they live.
During a regional competition in April against other local middle schools, LVA’s own Sudha Chandrasekaran and Aryash Shyam presented an incredibly impactful project: “How America Changed After the Great Depression”. This project wowed the judges and it was selected to advance to the next level of the history competition at Scranton University!
From After School Meetings to State Champions
A few weeks later, Sudha and Aryash prepared to present their project to an even larger bracket at the state competition. Middle school teams from across the Keystone State competed in various categories, but Aryash and Sudha’s project again proved to be the most impressive in the group presenter category. This incredible win means they’ll be representing Pennsylvania at the National Competition held this June.
Not only did our students win first place, but they also received the special honor of showcasing their exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., during the week of the national competition. These two have worked incredibly hard and we’re so proud to see them advance through each round!
With the National competition a few weeks away, the excitement continues to build. On April 30, Sudha and Aryash received their official certificates for First Place in the state competition Junior Group Exhibit, stamped and signed by Senator Boscola herself!
Governor Shapiro also sent our students a personal letter of encouragement, sharing that:
“our Commonwealth is shaped and strengthened by the character and prowess of our younger generation. The First Lady and I hope that you take the time to reflect on your achievements, and we wish you the best of luck and continued success as you move on to compete on the national stage.”
On Saturday, May 18th, a certificate of congressional recognition was awarded to Aryash by congresswoman Susan Wild during an event for new outstanding Military Academy Candidates; Aryash was invited to give the pledge of allegiance during the ceremony.
Principal Raeford, and all of us here at LVA, are thrilled by the dedication and success of our young learners. Both Sudha and Aryash have been an inspiration, and we cannot wait to hear more about the rest of their journey to Nationals in June.
Lehigh Valley Academy RCS 