A Local History Workshop sponsored by Sevier County Archives and Historical Services was held in the County Building on Thursday afternoon. Representatives from several counties and cities attended to learn about Historical Thinking and how to prepare histories.
Three Students William Chaston, Paisley Hallows and Boston Mason from North Sevier High School attended with their teacher, Rodney Hurd. During the presentation, topics such as “Why History Matters”, “Why Share Local History” and “Difference Between History and Heritage” were discussed. Participants at the conference were challenged to choose topics for historical research and publication. Boston Mason spoke of her interest in learning about the history of the Richfield Airport since she is currently earning her private pilot license. After she commented on her research interest, members of the Sevier County Archives and Historical Services told her they had a pamphlet and other information as part of their record she could use for research.
The North Sevier students were there as part of a National Social Science Honor Society called Rho Kappa. Their teacher used the conference as an opportunity for them to improve their research and writing skills.
Rho Kappa Induction Breakfast News Article
North Sevier High School held its annual Induction Breakfast for the National Social Studies Honor Society, Rho Kappa on September 31, 2025. Members of Rho Kappa were welcomed into the society with a pancake breakfast served by their advisors, Rodney Hurd and Jaylynn Johnson. Invited guests included Superintendent Cade Douglas and School Board Member Jill Porter.
The President of the organization, William Chaston welcomed the new members and conducted the induction ceremony. During the ceremony, several officers came forward to light candles and explain the academic and service orientation of the society.
Rho Kappa is both an international and national organization with over 1,000 chapters around the world. The one at North Sevier is the only chapter in Utah. The chapter at North Sevier was founded in 2018 and has done service projects to include cleaning the grounds around Miss Mary’s Museum. The organization also does field trips to the State Capitol, Topaz Museum, and the Utah Museum of Natural History. As part of its desire to improve cultural literacy, the group also does after school movies to introduce students to classics such as “Its A Wonderful Life” and “Dunkirk”. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA to be eligible for membership.
Photo: Members of Rho Kappa after breakfast and the induction ceremony. Featured in the picture are Rho Kappa Advisor, Rodney Hurd, Superintendent Cade Douglas, School Board Member Jill Porter, and Principal Ryan Harris.
