Vernon Hills High School juniors show off history research projects

The Vernon Hills High School library was closed Thursday and Friday, but there was no shortage of activity.

The school held its second annual history fair for which 166 juniors taking U.S. history worked throughout the school year to create detailed research projects that range from written reports to video documentaries and websites.

The theme for this year's event is "Leadership and Legacy in History," and the fair is an opportunity for participants to showcase their work to other VHHS students, staff and their parents.

The thesis projects were required to have an element in which they describe the legacy of a person or an organization and the leadership involved. All the projects were also required to include an element of Illinois or Chicago history.

The top entrants will be selected by the teachers and will advance to the regional and, possibly, state competition, coinciding with National History Day.

"Two of our projects went to state last year, and we are hoping that we have as good of a representation this year," said school librarian Monica Tolva.