# Jersey City Students Advance to National History Day Finals with “Radium Girls” Documentary
Three students from Learning Community Charter School (LCCS) in Jersey City just snagged the honor of representing New Jersey at the National History Day finals. Sophie DeWitt, Ava Liss, and Leah Munk impressed judges with a documentary about workplace safety pioneers whose fight changed labor rights across America.
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Local Students Shine with Powerful Historical Documentary
These LCCS students earned their spot at nationals after showing off some serious research and presentation skills at the state competition. Their documentary, “The Radium Girls: Shining a Light on Workers’ Rights,” dives into the grim experiences of early 20th-century factory workers who were poisoned by radium paint as they decorated watch dials.
Uncovering a Critical Chapter in Labor History
They dug deep into primary sources and used storytelling to show how these young women, many facing awful health problems, fought for recognition of workplace dangers and fair compensation. Their legal battles sparked reforms in safety regulations that still protect American workers—even if most people barely know about it.
“This project let us connect with an important but honestly overlooked part of American history,” said Sophie DeWitt. “The way these women stood up to powerful corporations, even while they were sick, really inspired us.”
Months of Dedication and Research
Making a documentary for competition took months of real commitment from these young historians. They sifted through primary sources, interviewed experts, and learned video production skills to tell this story in their own way.
Community Support Fuels Success
They didn’t do it alone. Teachers, parents, and community members all pitched in with guidance and encouragement along the way.
LCCS has a bit of a tradition here—students from the school have reached the National History Day finals before. The school’s focus on project-based learning and critical thinking helps students tackle tough academic challenges and build research skills they’ll actually use outside the classroom.
Representing Jersey City on the National Stage
The national finals kick off at the University of Maryland in June. Students will get to show off their work alongside top young historians from all over the country.
For a lot of visitors, this might be the first time they really notice just how lively Jersey City’s educational community is. There’s something energizing about seeing local students step onto a bigger stage.
Their achievement shines a light on just one of the many things to do in Jersey City for folks who love education—like checking out its schools and the creative programs happening there. Every one of the city districts brings its own personality and fresh educational opportunities to the table.
If you’re thinking about supporting these young scholars or catching similar events, getting to Jersey City is a breeze. There are plenty of transportation options from around the region.
And hey, if you want to stick around, there are several Jersey City hotels to choose from. That way, you can dive into the city’s culture at your own pace.
Parents looking to move here often dig into where to stay in Jersey City based on which school districts offer the best fit. LCCS is just one example of the kind of quality education you can find in this lively urban hub.
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Here is the source article for this story: Three Students from Learning Community Charter School to Represent New Jersey at National History Day Finals
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