Foundation for Idaho History

National History Day in Idaho (NHD) is a year-long student-led academic program focused on historical research, interpretation, and creative expression for 4th-12th grade students across Idaho. By participating in NHD, students become writers, filmmakers, web designers, playwrights and artists as they

create unique contemporary expressions of history. The experience culminates in a series of competitions at the local and state levels and an annual national contest in June.

Students who participate in NHD build skills that are key to success in college, career, and citizenship. NHD teaches critical thinking, writing, and research skills. They learn to speak publicly, collaborate with team members, communicate ideas effectively with diverse audiences, manage their time, and persevere through challenges.

The Foundation for Idaho History seeks support to increase access to National History Day program opportunities for students in Idaho.  The Foundation for Idaho History aims to remove barriers to participation for educators and students in Idaho by supporting national registration needs and curriculum material support for classrooms.

The Ray Knight Field Trip Fund helps offset admission and transportation costs to schools in Idaho, by evaluating the needs of Idaho’s Title One schools.

Student admission cost for all field trips is based on the percentage of students that qualify for free or reduced lunch. Schools that have over 40% of students that qualify for free or reduced lunch will receive $2 off admission costs, covered by the Ray Knight Field Trip Scholarship Fund. Additionally, all schools, can apply for bus funding support through the Ray Knight Field Trip Scholarship.

Funding is awarded on a first come, first served basis and is subject to availability.

The Foundation for Idaho History seeks support to provide funding for schools in Idaho to provide bus transportation to all Idaho children.

The Guide, Engage, Mobilize (GEM) High School Internship Program brings together passionate, curious, and innovative teens to make a difference in Idaho communities and get a behind the scenes look at the Idaho State Museum. Interns network with professionals including archivists, curators, and designers as they advance important skills that will prepare them for college and career. Interns dive deeper into exciting topics and develop key skills through projects, programs, workshops, and volunteering. As a member of the museum team, students meet teens from across the Treasure Valley and work together to create exciting and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

The Foundation for Idaho History seeks funding to support Idaho’s high schoolers that want to intern with the Idaho State Museum.

Camps are a great way to provide hands-on learning opportunities for your family! Have a blast with camps at the Idaho State Museum. Experience history like never before as you play, explore, and make new friends. Spring and Summer camps are offered annually at the Idaho State Museum near the heart of downtown Boise. Registration is accepted for both week-long camps or single-day camps and camp activities incorporate STEM learning and tie into K-5 learning curriculum. 

The Idaho State Museum has a limited number of camp scholarships available. The Foundation for Idaho History seeks financial support to increase access to summer camp opportunities for children in Idaho.