Factory Shoals and Chapel Hill elementary schools are among those honoring Women’s History Month in March with special celebrations.
Author Valerie Thompkins visited Factory Shoals on Monday. During her visit, Thompkins read her two books, “Girls Like Me” and “Boys Like Me,” and led students through her journey of becoming an author.
Thompkins encourages students to explore various career paths, “as she believes students from all backgrounds can be the main characters,” Factory Shoals Principal Tosha Wright said.
“This event was put together by our Diversity Committee who believe that having an author to visit during Women's History Month offers our students a valuable opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of women and promote literacy and critical thinking,” Wright said. “Ms. Thompkins' visit inspired our students by reminding them they can be anything they want. Many students were also amazed that the books showed kids as doctors, scientists and athletes!”
At Chapel Hill, the media center is presenting a Women’s History Month Wax Museum.
Media Specialist Cameron Sheldon said the exhibit features Barbies representing influential women, mini wax figures with accompanying children’s literature about important women, and a thought-provoking photo display of women at the school who make a daily difference.
Sheldon emphasized the careful selection process, stating, "It is important that our media center provides students with an outlet to learn about women who were instrumental in shaping our nation as well as women who are currently making a difference. We carefully selected books to empower our young readers."