For Women’s History Month this March, The Jungle Vines Gazette, an integral part of The Cole Kids Academy, is proud to commemorate pivotal women by recognizing their monumental contributions throughout history. This celebration is not just a reflection on the past; it is a forward-looking endeavor, aiming to educate and inspire the next generation about the role women have played in our society and the struggle for gender equality.
Women’s History Month began as a local celebration in Santa Rosa, California, in 1978. By 1987, after persistent efforts and advocacy, it gained national recognition in the United States, setting the stage for a global acknowledgment of women’s contributions. This evolution from a single day to a full month highlights the growing awareness and appreciation of women’s roles in history, culture, and society.
The theme for Women’s History Month 2024, ‘Empowering Voices, Inspiring Futures,’ underscores the importance of listening to and amplifying the voices of women from all walks of life. It is a call to action for communities, institutions, and individuals to recognize the achievements of women, challenge gender biases and work towards a more equitable world.
In Kenya, where The Cole Kids Academy is based, Women’s History Month provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all women and to reflect on the specific challenges they face. From environmental conservationists and political leaders to entrepreneurs and advocates for social justice, women have been at the forefront of change, contributing significantly to the world’s development and the global fight against climate change.
We encourage you, our readers, to engage with Women’s History Month by exploring the stories of women who have made a difference in their communities and the world. Whether through classroom discussions, community events, or personal reflection, this month offers a chance to learn about the resilience, creativity, and leadership of women throughout history.
Adding to our celebration of Women’s History Month within The Jungle Vines Gazette, we also take a moment to honor the pioneering women in history whose contributions have been foundational to the realm of education, particularly in the development of homeschooling methodologies and curriculums that have inspired The Cole Kids Academy’s approach to learning.
Dr. Maria Montessori, the creator of the Montessori method, revolutionized education with her child-centered approach, which emphasizes hands-on learning, self-directed activity, and collaborative play. Her work significantly influences us at The Cole Kids Academy.
Micere Githae Mugo, a prolific Kenyan playwright, author, activist, and academic. Mugo made significant contributions to literature and was an outspoken advocate for social justice, human rights, and women’s rights, both in Kenya and internationally.
Maya Angelou, an African American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, who was self-taught in several areas. Despite limited formal education, Angelou became one of the most renowned and influential voices of our time. Her work as an author and poet continues to inspire millions around the globe.
Charlotte Mason, an English educator in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, who advocated for a broad and liberal arts education for children. Her emphasis on nature study, literature, and the arts as central to children’s education has influenced homeschooling philosophies around the world.
Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate, who continued her education under extremely challenging circumstances. Malala’s advocacy for girls’ education has sparked global change and inspired countless young women to pursue their education.
Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, a self-taught scholar and poet of New Spain, who became a nun to continue her studies. Her writings advocating for women’s rights and education made her a pioneering figure in early Mexican literature.
Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States, was a pioneer in promoting education for women in medicine. Her determination and success opened doors for women in science and medicine, areas traditionally dominated by men.
Ruby Bridges, in 1960, at just six years old, Ruby became an iconic figure in the Civil Rights Movement when she became the first African American student to integrate into an all-white elementary school in the South. This historic event took place at William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Ruby’s brave act of walking into the school, escorted by federal marshals amidst a hostile crowd, became a powerful symbol of the struggle for civil rights and the fight against segregation in the United States. Her courage and the iconic image of her walking to school have left a lasting legacy in the fight for equality and have been an inspiration to many across generations. Ruby Bridges’ story is a testament to the impact that one person, regardless of age, can have on history and societal change.
These women, among others, have laid the groundwork for the diverse educational practices. Their legacies remind us of the importance of innovative and inclusive education.
As we reflect and honor the powerful narratives and extraordinary achievements of women who have shaped our world, we are reminded of the importance of passing these stories on to the next generation. We are reminded of the profound impact storytelling has on shaping the ambitions and perspectives of our young scholars. It is with this recognition that The Cole Kids Academy warmly extends our sincerest gratitude to Aunt Marti. As a beloved family member, staunch supporter, cherished friend, esteemed board member, and an inspirational figure in her own right, Aunt Marti has enriched our collective journey by gifting us ‘Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls.’ This treasure trove of tales, chronicling the adventures of remarkable women across the globe, constantly fuels our students’ imaginations, inspiring them to envision boundless possibilities. Aunt Marti’s generous gift captures the spirit of this month’s celebration—empowerment, resilience, and the infinite potential harbored within each girl. It allows us to interlace these empowering narratives into the very heart of our academy’s educational experience.
Women’s History Month is not just about looking back; it is also about moving forward. By educating ourselves and our children about the contributions of these amazing women and more, we pave the way for future generations to break down barriers and build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
© 2024 The Cole Kids Academy LTD. All rights reserved.
Sources:
Angelou, Maya. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Random House, 1969.
Bridges, Ruby. Through My Eyes. Scholastic Press, 1999.
Coles, Robert. The Story of Ruby Bridges. Scholastic Press, 1995.
Favilli, Elena, and Francesca Cavallo. Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls. Timbuktu Labs, 2016.
Harper, Judith E. Susan B. Anthony: A Biographical Companion. ABC-CLIO, 1998.
Kramer, Rita. Maria Montessori: A Biography. Addison-Wesley Publishing Company, 1976.
Mason, Charlotte. Home Education. Tyndale House Publishers, 1989.
Ngugi wa Thiong’o, and Micere Githae Mugo. The Trial of Dedan Kimathi. Heinemann, 1976.
Nimura, Janice P. The Doctors Blackwell: How Two Pioneering Sisters Brought Medicine to
Women and Women to Medicine. W.W. Norton & Company, 2021.
Yousafzai, Malala, and Christina Lamb. I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban. Little, Brown and Company.
