The Women of Woodhaven (WOW) Club at Woodhaven High School took their passion for women’s history beyond their own school walls last month, bringing their first-ever Women’s History Month Showcase to the students at Wegienka and Bates Elementary Schools. With a club membership 30 strong, the WOW students set out to educate and inspire the next generation by highlighting the achievements of women throughout history.
Kristen Garavaglia, WOW’s club advisor, explained the motivation behind the event.
“We are always looking for ways to celebrate Women’s History Month,” she said. “This year’s national theme is ‘Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,’ which is exactly what encouraged our students to visit the elementary schools.”
During the showcase, WOW members set up multiple interactive stations, each focusing on different roles that women have played throughout history. Students rotated through activities that included learning about women in athletics, science, music, and art. They took part in arts and crafts, trivia, storytelling, and even a puppet show featuring historical female figures. One station encouraged students to make a card for an influential woman in their own lives, while another had them design their own medal after hearing stories of women in sports, inspiring them to dream big about their own accomplishments.
Each activity was led by WOW members, who took ownership of their presentations by selecting topics they were passionate about.
“It’s always more inspiring to hear someone talk about something they truly care about,” Garavaglia said. “Our students chose their topics, put together presentations, and rehearsed as a team to make sure they were delivering the best experience possible.”
The event was not just about teaching history - it was about mentorship and leadership too.
“Our mission is to create a safe space and support system for students while celebrating the accomplishments of women,” Garavaglia said. “This event went above and beyond that mission, allowing our students to become role models for younger students in our district.”
Despite their busy schedules, the high school students dedicated time to planning and executing the showcase.
“I’m so proud of the effort they put in,” Garavaglia said. “They might have felt a little stressed leading up to it, but I know on the day of the event, they were incredibly proud of what they accomplished.”
In the past, WOW has held showcases at the high school, but this was their first venture into the elementary schools. “We plan to meet to discuss if this event is better suited at the elementary or high school level,” Garavaglia shared. Regardless of what the future holds, this year’s event left a lasting impact on both the WOW members and the young students they inspired. Students enjoyed the many activities they were able to participate in as there were a variety of activities to include everyone.
Through creativity, leadership, and a passion for celebrating women’s achievements, the Women of Woodhaven made this year’s Women’s History Month one to remember - one that, hopefully, will encourage the next generation to dream big and break barriers.
