Moriarty‑Edgewood students lauded after National History Day nationals showing

The Moriarty‑Edgewood School District Board of Education recognized students who advanced to National History Day at its Sept. 17 regular meeting, praising their research and presentation work.

Student Andrew (a high‑school competitor) and teammate Rohan presented a website project about the rise of the Khmer Rouge and the Cambodian genocide, saying their work aimed to “expose … what really happened” and that the topic is "a lot to unpack". Board members applauded the students’ national placement and teachers Heather Pagee and Matthew Johnson were acknowledged for leading and expanding the district’s National History Day (NHD) program.

Superintendent Vivano and board members noted several other student projects that reached nationals or placed highly, including exhibits on the integration of women into the Marine Corps and projects on the Rwandan genocide and historical incidents at the U.S.–Mexico border. The administration said older students and alumni help mentor middle‑school participants and that participation supports research skills such as annotated bibliographies, thesis writing and public presentation.

Board members and administrators said they hope to grow participation this year and cited the program as valuable preparation for college and career readiness. The board’s recognition included applause and brief remarks highlighting student leadership and the district’s plan for more mentorship between high‑school and middle‑school NHD participants.

The board did not take any policy action on the program at the meeting; the recognition was presented as an announcement during the regular session.