EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — A fourth-grade student at Mesita Elementary School is being recognized for his passion for history and his academic achievements.
Nicolas Ontiveros Arrieta won second place in this year’s History Day Contest held at the University of Texas El Paso, competing against other students.
Ontiveros Arrieta later placed fourth at the state competition and was the only fourth grader from El Paso to compete at the statewide event.
During the History Day competition, students researched historical topics tied to a theme and presented their work to historians and educators. Ontiveros Arrieta chose to focus on the African American Revolution and said he enjoys learning about history.
“It makes me happy because it’s fun to learn about, and I want other people to see what History Day is like and how they feel about it,” Ontiveros Arrieta said.
Nicolas Ontiveros Arrieta wins second place in this year’s History Day contest at the University of Texas at El Paso.(Courtesy: EPISD)
His mentor and teacher said the recognition highlights the strong academic opportunities available to students at Mesita Elementary.
“I think with those opportunities being brought to our school and students, that’s how we help them challenge themselves and become even better people,” said Luz Luna, a fourth-grade teacher.
“So that really speaks to the rigor this campus provides students and the opportunities they have to participate in academic competitions,” said Jesse Arrieta, EPISD secondary social studies facilitator.
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KFOX14 asked Ontiveros Arrieta what he is looking forward to in fifth grade.
“I’m excited to go to the state again and win,” he said.
Ontiveros Arrieta also received El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson’s Team of Excellence Award for competing in National History Day, but also for his community service, positive attitude, and academic excellence.
National History Day is a nationwide academic competition that encourages students to conduct historical research and present their findings through projects and presentations.