March is National Women’s History Month. Celebrated since 1987, this month serves as a way to recognize the accomplishments made by women throughout history. Often, the contributions made by women have been overlooked. For example, in 1953, Watson and Crick took credit for discovering DNA’s double-helix structure, and even won a Nobel prize for it. However, did you know it was actually Rosalind Franklin who made the discovery?
Starting as Women’s History Day in 1978, a school district in Sonoma, California had students take part in an essay competition, presentations, and a parade. This idea caught on with other school districts, eventually leading to a National Women’s History Week on the week of March 8, and finally the entire month.
For this year’s celebrations, we suggest going back to its roots and having an essay competition. Encourage students to find a woman in their owl life that they look up to. Write an essay highlighting their accomplishments and explaining why they are an inspiration.
For more ideas and history about this month’s celebration, visit History.com.