National History Day Coaching

Guiding Students Through National History Day — One Step at a Time

Personalized coaching from a family who’s helped students win at every level — local, state, and national.

What We Help With

National History Day

Topic selection, thesis development, and contest prep for NHD competitors.

Optimist International Oratorical Contest

Coaching for students competing in oratorical speech.

4-H Tropicana Speech Contest

Guidance for 4-H speech competitors.

With History Happens

National Champions

National Finalists

State Champions

Smithsonian Exhibitors

Scholarship/Prize Money Earned

$ 5000

Flip a card to learn about NHD

Free Resources to Help You Along the Way

Learning Guides

Step-by-step help for every stage of your project.

Document Library

Downloadable tools and references.

Podcast

Craig and Lesley talk NHD strategy every episode.

What Families Are Saying

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   L U 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a former National History Day participant, I found these mentors to be crucial in my growth and learning. Not only did they guide my group to second-place at the state level and a spot at the national competition, but they also provided an unforgettable experience. I am deeply grateful for their support and highly recommend working with these exceptional educators. You will not regret it!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   S S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lesley and Craig tremendously helped my boys with National History Day. Their knowledge of the process, as well as historical events, is so impressive. They not only taught my boys how to prepare a process paper, write a thesis statement, and answer judges' questions, they also taught them skills that will last a lifetime - how to write an email, how to stand tall, how to have confidence. We are so thankful for them!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   F W 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best coaches, full stop. Craig and Leslie brought the best out of my sons last year. Passion, dedication, deep experience, and a track record that’s unmatched. My highest recommendation.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   H W 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing coaches!!! If you want to win, these are your people. They know the secrets to winning NHD and if you take their advice, you WILL win.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   K S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We found the Mateers through classmates who had worked with them before, and from day one they have been absolutely amazing. Their sessions helped us improve our project and presentation skills in so many different ways, and throughout our National History Day project they always encouraged us to think deeper, ask questions, consider other perspectives, and not to be afraid when things went sideways (and they did 😂).They were always there to help and support us, and with their guidance we made it to the state competition. I highly recommend having them help with history fair projects.
  
 
  
  
 
 
      Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more