Milwaukee City Wire

Twenty-six middle school students from Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) made history by being the first district students to participate in the National History Day competition. The event took place in Madison during spring, and a group of students from Hayes Bilingual School advanced to compete at the national level in Washington, D.C.

The trip to Washington was notable as less than one percent of the 500,000 participants worldwide qualify for nationals. These students dedicated at least two hours weekly to extra history lessons, learning about primary and secondary sources. Seventh and eighth graders served as team captains while fifth graders acted as research assistants.

With support from social studies teachers, MPS Gifted and Talented coach Martha Silva-Krieger, and their families, these young historians engaged in debates, research, and re-enactments focusing on America’s past. Their projects were guided by the theme "Rights and Responsibilities in History," linking America's democratic journey with their experiences as gifted bilingual students.

Hayes Bilingual School's project titled "Justice for All" featured portrayals of historical figures such as James Madison and Cory Booker. This creativity earned them a spot at the National Contest in D.C. Meanwhile, Albert E. Kagel School received the Wisconsin History Award for an exhibit on bilingual public education's impact in Milwaukee.

Coach Martha Silva-Krieger stated: “This is a very rigorous contest... Our students embraced every challenge.” The initiative was supported by MPS Advanced Academic Programs, Wisconsin Historical Society, community volunteers, and chaperones.

Silva-Krieger noted that staying at the University of Maryland gave students insights into college life: “Some of them said they didn’t like social studies before this experience or weren’t thinking about college.”

Kate Arlene Esteves Perez from Hayes Bilingual School reflected: “It changed my perspective on history... Something that sticks with me is how people thought and felt in 1787.”

Darlene Perez Rodriguez expressed pride watching her daughter perform: “I would describe it as a piece of history being brought to today’s reality.”

The program saw participation from various schools including Albert E. Kagel School, Fernwood Montessori School, Morse Middle School for the Gifted and Talented among others. Students created documentaries, websites, performances, and exhibits capturing significant moments in American history.

Silva-Krieger concluded: “It was an honor to help create this powerful learning journey.”