South Pasadena High School Students Excel at Regional and National History Day Competitions
After months of researching, writing, and editing, SPHS students competed in the History Day LA competition at San Gabriel High School on Saturday, March 1, 2025, and the National History Day Championship held at Sacramento State University on May 2-4, 2025. This year’s theme was Rights & Responsibilities in History.
Congratulations to freshman Luke Kwak. His historical paper, “Left Behind by the Greatest Generation: How the GI Bill widened the Racial Gap in America,” placed fourth in the State and received the Gilo Award, which recognizes outstanding projects in the historical paper category. His paper will be published in a forthcoming issue of Clio, the award-winning student history journal of Sacramento State University.
And kudos to juniors Julian Ovalle, Youhan Liu, and Ethan Kwak, who competed in the documentary category. Ethan Kwak’s documentary placed as a regional runner-up. We are so proud of the students and thankful for the inspiration and coaching from SPHS Social Science teacher Oliver Valcorza.
South Pasadena High School, 1401 Fremont Ave., South Pasadena, (626) 441-5820 or visit www.sphstigers.org.
About South Pasadena Unified School District
Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,700 students within five schools including three elementary schools, one middle school and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California. Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation for providing high quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state and national level. The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs and booster clubs.
For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, scarroll@spusd.net.
