How Women Educators Are Changing the World

March is Women’s History Month. For the next few weeks, I will be honoring Women in Education for their contribution to their classrooms, their community, and the world. 

In December 2021, we lost the incomparable Bell Hooks. She was an educator, activist, author, feminist – who passed at the age of 69. Regarding education, – she is quoted: “My hope emerges from those places of struggle where I witness individuals positively transforming their lives and the world around them. Educating is a vocation rooted in hopefulness. As teachers, we believe that learning is possible, that nothing can keep an open mind from seeking after knowledge and finding a way to know.”

As we celebrate this amazing woman educator during Women’s History Month, let’s also consider her quote and the leadership lessons we can learn from it.

Bell had hope. She had hope that emerges from those places of struggle she witnessed. As leaders, we must grow personally and professionally in areas where we need to grow. It is also key to know your people and witness what they are struggling with. You, as their mentor/leader/guide, can offer suggestions, tools, tips, and tricks to help them grow their skillset. You also can guide their thinking to that of hope and positivity. Mindset management is truly a way to guide and shape our lives now and in the future. 

When people positively transform their lives in front of you, make sure you celebrate them and if appropriate, celebrate them publicly. It is said people will do more for recognition than they will for compensation. 

When it comes to a growth mindset, it often takes a leader to point out how far we have come. Sometimes people can’t see their progress. Make sure you are taking note of it for them. 

If you lead like an educator, believing that learning is possible, encouraging the pursuit of seeking after knowledge, and finding the truth - you will have great followers too. 

Today, thank a female educator or leader/mentor in your life for what they have brought to your life. It will make a positive difference in their lives too knowing that their work has made a difference. 

Best, 

Manal