It is women’s history monthand this year’s national theme—Tribute to the women who tell our stories— honors women of all ages and walks of life who shape and share America’s history, while expanding our understanding of the human condition and strengthening our connection to each other and to our world.
Over generations and now, every day, women are breaking down barriers and leading the way to a more just and equitable future, whether they serve in classrooms or communities, run their own businesses or boardrooms, new discoveries in laboratories or work in any field of endeavor.
Women’s History Month—and International Women’s Day—to give us a special opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions and achievements of pioneering women who have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place.
Our country’s educational workforce is made up of a majority of women, about three-quarters of our country’s teachers. Especially over the past few years and as our schools and students continue to recover from the pandemic, our teachers have shaped a powerful narrative…that education is at the heart of health, well-being and academic growth of our young people and the prosperity of our communities and our country.
At the Department, we believe in the power of teachers’ voices; building an exceptional and diverse workforce of educators; expanding teacher leadership opportunities; and promoting better strategies for compensation, working conditions, professional development and retention of educators.
Women also play a central role in the work of the US Department of Education.
More than 60 percent of the Department’s workforce is made up of women, both of whom inspire us daily with their commitment to raising the bar on what it means to be a public servant, wearing many hats at work, at home and in their communities, and never wavering in their service to achieve our important mission of expanding excellence and equity in education for all.
And as women continue to shape the history of this nation, we cannot forget that there is still much work to be done to achieve full gender equality. We are encouraged by the progress we have made as a country and when we imagine the transformative change that the next generation – the students currently in our classrooms – will lead!
Together, let us unite to celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day by honoring the positive impacts of women in our own lives and in the life of our nation.
Let’s reflect on the ways each of us can help create a more equitable and just world, whether through mentoring and empowering women and girls, advocating for greater gender equality, or amplifying voice women, every action has power.