How to Celebrate Women’s History Month in the Classroom

Women’s History Month is about honoring the contributions of women throughout history, across all fields, and in every part of the world. Too often, women’s accomplishments have been overlooked, minimized, or left out of history books altogether. But in reality, women have shaped the world we live in today—from science to literature, politics to art, and innovation to activism.

Even in classrooms where most students don’t identify as female, learning about women’s contributions is essential for understanding a full and accurate history. Women’s stories are human stories, and by celebrating them, we teach students that greatness knows no gender.

The Origins of Women’s History Month

Women’s History Month started as Women’s History Week in 1980, thanks to advocacy from educators and activists who wanted to highlight women’s roles in history. By 1987, it expanded into a full month, officially recognized by the U.S. Congress. Today, it serves as a reminder to celebrate women’s achievements while also recognizing the barriers they have faced—and continue to overcome.

Why Every Classroom Should Celebrate Women’s History Month

1. It Provides a More Complete and Accurate History

For centuries, many history lessons have centered men’s perspectives, leaving out or diminishing the contributions of women. Women’s History Month gives us the chance to correct the narrative and ensure that students learn a fuller, richer version of history.

• Discuss influential women throughout time, from Cleopatra and Joan of Arc to Rosa Parks and Malala Yousafzai.
• Show how women have shaped fields like science, medicine, aviation, and literature.
• Highlight diverse voices—Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian women who have broken barriers.

Check out my many women’s history bulletin board sets- I continue to add more sets all the time!

2. It Helps All Students See Themselves in History

Representation matters. When students see people like them in history, it inspires them to dream bigger, achieve more, and believe that they, too, can make a difference. This isn’t just about girls seeing female role models—it’s about all students recognizing the vital role women play in society.

• Feature diverse women in STEM, the arts, sports, and activism.
• Incorporate books and primary sources written by and about women.
• Discuss the challenges women have faced, but also celebrate their victories.

3. It Sparks Critical Thinking & Important Conversations

Learning about women’s history invites students to ask big questions about justice, equality, and representation. Why were women excluded from certain professions? Why did it take so long for women to gain basic rights? What does gender equality look like today?

• Encourage discussions about leadership, barriers, and progress.
• Connect historical struggles to present-day movements for equality.
• Explore how gender roles have evolved over time and across cultures.

Easy Ways to Celebrate Women’s History Month in the Classroom

You don’t have to revamp your entire curriculum—just small, meaningful additions can make a difference!

• Update Your Classroom Decor – Add posters of influential women in history, literature, and STEM.
• Tie Women’s Contributions into Every Subject – Highlight female scientists, inventors, artists, and athletes.
• Use Read-Alouds & Book Displays – Feature books by and about powerful women.
• Encourage Student Research – Let students choose a historical or modern-day woman to study and present.
• Make It Interactive – Use trivia games, digital scavenger hunts, or classroom discussions to bring history to life.

Women’s History Shouldn’t Be Limited to One Month– While March is a time to shine a spotlight on women’s contributions, the work doesn’t stop there. Incorporating women’s voices into lessons all year long ensures that students see women as key figures in every part of history, not just during one designated month.

• Make representation a year-round effort.
• Integrate women’s achievements into your core subjects.
• Encourage students to see history as something they are part of, too.

Looking for easy, ready-to-print resources to celebrate Women’s History Month? Check out my classroom decor sets on Etsy or Teachers Pay Teachers to make your space inclusive and inspiring! Looking for other monthly classroom ideas? Check out this post about Black History Month!

Celebrate Women’s History Month effortlessly with my all-in-one classroom decor bundle!

• 10 ready-to-print resources for Women’s History Month, all in one bundle.
• Diverse and inclusive women from history, science, arts, and more.
• No prep needed – print, display, and inspire your students instantly!
• Perfect for all grades – adaptable for elementary, middle, and high school.
• Encourages meaningful discussions on perseverance, equality, and leadership.Saves you time while promoting representation and historical awareness!

Learn more about the history of Women’s History Month from The National Women’s History Alliance.