CONTACT: Patrice Marshall McKenzie (213) 259-9763
Los Angeles, CA (March 10, 2026) – Today, the Los Angeles Unified Board of Education approved a resolution recognizing March as Women’s History Month and celebrating March 8 as International Women’s Day. The District affirms its commitment to providing students with educational tools and resources that elevate the values and contributions of women in our society. Women are leaders in education and are uniquely positioned to guide, inspire and nurture the next generation of students.
The resolution was authored by Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill and co-sponsored by Board President Scott Schmerelson, Board Vice President Dr. Rocio Rivas, Board Members Nick Melvoin, Karla Griego, Member Kelly Gonez, Tanya Ortiz Franklin and Student Board Member Jerry Yang.
“Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day are opportunities to ensure our students see the full story of leadership, innovation, and courage reflected in their education. It helps ensure that the contributions of women—especially women whose voices have been historically marginalized—are visible, valued, and woven into everyday learning. We reaffirm our commitment to equity and opportunity for every student,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill.
“Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day give us the opportunity to recognize the extraordinary contributions women have made to our nation, our communities, and our schools,” Acting Superintendent Andrés E. Chait said. “Women educators, leaders, mentors, and advocates shape the future of our students. Their dedication ensures the success of our students today, and inspires the next generation of young women to pursue their ambitions and lead with confidence.”
“LAUSD is taking important steps forward to bring more culturally relevant materials to celebrate women’s achievements throughout the history of our nation,” said LAUSD Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. “However, as much progress has been made for women, the fight will continue, as there are numerous federal policies and ideologies that threaten their livelihoods. The District will continue to support our women students, staff, and families beyond our classrooms.”
"Women’s History Month honors the generations of women who organized, led, and fought for opportunity and equity. As the daughter of immigrants and the first in my family to earn a doctorate, I know the power of education to open doors and inspire the next generation of women leaders," said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas.
“I’m proud to recognize Women’s History Month and reaffirm LA Unified’s commitment to gender, said Board Member Nick Melvoin. From students to staff, school sites to central administration—including our majority female Board of Education—our work continues to counteract the harmful effects of gender bias and disparities so that everyone can reach their full potential in our school communities.”
“Women’s History Month is not only a time to celebrate achievements, but also to recognize the generations of women who organized, protested, and fought for justice so that future generations could have greater opportunities, said Board Member Karla Griego. Throughout history, women have been at the forefront of movements for civil rights, labor rights, immigrant rights, and educational justice, reminding us that when women lead, communities grow stronger.”
“Women are fearless, powerful, and inspiring, said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin. As a daughter, sister, mother, and leader, Women’s History Month is deeply meaningful to me. It is a time to honor the trailblazers who challenged barriers and opened doors so women today can lead, serve, and thrive. Their courage reminds us that when women rise, communities grow stronger. Together, we continue paving the way for the next generation. ¡Que viva la mujer!”
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