Girl power isn’t just a slogan. It’s strength, resilience, creativity, and change in action. It lives in in the stories of women who challenged barriers, raised their voices, and reshaped the world—and in the girls continuing that work today.

On March 8, 2026, the world marks the 115th anniversary of International Women’s Day (IWD). Since 1911, IWD has highlighted the ongoing fight for gender equality and reproductive rights, while celebrating the social, political, and cultural achievements of women worldwide. This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” reminds us that meaningful progress happens when we show up for one another through advocacy, resources, training, and education.

One of the most powerful ways teachers can bring that spirit into the classroom is through books. The stories students encounter help shape how they understand equity, leadership, and possibility. We’ve collected 12 new and upcoming titles for readers of all ages, genders, and levels that honour the trailblazers past and present, and empower new generations to imagine and build what comes next. 

The Dream of an Education: How Phymean Noun Built a School
By Susan Hughes
Illustrated by Tida Kheav
Orca Book Publishers (May 2026)
Grade Level: 4–7

This illustrated biography introduces middle-grade readers to Phymean Noun, founder of the People Improvement Organization (PIO), which has helped over 8,000 children in Cambodia receive an education since 2002. Phymean grew up under the Khmer Rouge regime during the 1970s, when formal education was all but forbidden. Her dream of learning to read and write eventually came true after the government was overthrown, and years later when Phymean met a group of child labourers living in Phnom Penh who were unable to go to school, she was determined to help them achieve the same goal.

Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World
By Kate Pankhurst
Bloomsbury Children’s Books (February 2026)
Grade Level: K–2

In the updated 10th-anniversary edition of the book that inspired the award-winning musical, readers can learn about 15 incredible women who shaped the world as we know it today, from scientist Marie Curie to suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst. Be sure to check out the rest of Kate Pankhurst’s Fantastically Great Women series too! 

Farming Is Female: Twenty Women Shaking Up the Field
By Rachel Sarah
Yellow Jacket (September 2025)
Grade Level: 3–7

Farming Is Female takes a deep dive into food justice and how today’s female farmers are changing the way we think about food production. The book also includes hands-on projects, activities, and recipes for middle-grade students.

The Girl Who Changed Little League: The True Story of Maria Pepe and Her Battle to Play Ball
By Maria Pepe and Jean L. S. Patrick
Illustrated by Sarah Green
Christy Ottaviano Books (March 2026)
Grade Level: 1–3

This picture book tells the true story of Maria Pepe, an eleven-year girl old who wanted nothing more than to play Little League baseball. When she found out that the league wasn’t open to female players, Maria refused to let that stop her. Thanks to her determination and bravery, Maria changed the course of Little League forever.

Marie Louise Bottineau Baldwin: Political Pathfinder
By Hema Erdrich Patel
Illustrated by Awanigiizhik Bruce
Lerner Publications (January 2026)
Grade Level: 4–8

The daughter of Jean Baptiste Bottineau, a Métis lawyer and businessman, Marie grew up watching her father fight for his communities. She followed in his footsteps to become an activist and lawyer, working with the suffragette movement and as a spokesperson for Indigenous rights and identity. She was also the first Indigenous woman to graduate from the Washington College of Law.

Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder
By Erin Frankel
Illustrated by Jasu Hu
Calkins Creek (October 2025)
Grade Level: 2–5

In this lyrical picture book biography, young readers will be introduced to Mary Oliver, award-winning American poet. With soulful text from Erin Frankel and lush nature illustrations from Jasu Hu, Holding on to Wonder is a beautiful tribute to Mary and her extraordinary poetry.  

Miss Betti, What Is This?: How Detroit’s School Lunch Lady Got Good Food on the Menu
By Lela Nargi
Illustrated by Kristen Uroda
Sleeping Bear Press (July 2025)
Grade Level: 1–4

Miss Betti, What Is This? tells the heartwarming true story about a little-known changemaker in the Detroit public school system. As the school lunch lady, Miss Betti knew that students were not getting the nutritious lunches they needed. She set out to change that—starting small, then eventually creating an urban gardening program that not only filled students’ places with fresh, healthy food, but also taught them how to grow their own fruits and vegetables.

Rock Star: How Ursula Marvin Mapped Moon Rocks and Meteorites
By Sandra Neil Wallace
Illustrated by Nancy Carpenter
Paula Wiseman Books (October 2025)
Grade Level: K–3

Young readers will learn about the life and legacy of Ursula Marvin, a groundbreaking scientist who broke barriers in the field of planet geology by travelling to Antarctica to search for meteorites—the first woman to ever do so. Despite facing gender discrimination at every turn, Ursula accomplished incredible feats during her lengthy career, and her theories have fundamentally reshaped the way we now understand the universe.

Run the World Like a Girl: International Women Leaders
By Kate Graham
Second Story Press (October 2025)
Grade Level: 4–7

Kate Graham’s biographical essay collection tells the stories of 12 girls who grew up to become world leaders. From Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, the first female president of Iceland, to Benazir Bhutto of Pakistan, the first woman elected to lead a Muslim-majority country, young readers are sure to take inspiration from these exceptional women.

Snowshoe Kate and the Hospital Built for Pennies
By Margi Preus
Illustrated by Jaime Zollars
Abrams Books for Young Readers (October 2025)
Grade Level: K–3

Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb, known as the “Angel on Snowshoes,” was a trailblazing figure in early-1900s rural Wisconsin. She had to travel long distances by snowplow or snowshoe to visit many of her patients, and by the end of her career, would deliver over 4,000 babies. Dr. Kate advocated for years to build a hospital in her community, and thanks to a penny drive held by local students (many of whom she delivered), the Lakeland Memorial Hospital was opened in 1954, with Dr. Kate serving as chief of staff.

So She Went Ahead: 50 Trailblazing Women of the Canadian Prairies
By Haley Healey
Illustrated by Kimiko Fraser
Heritage House (April 2026)
Grade Level: 7–12

In this collection, readers will be introduced to 50 remarkable women from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, such as: Geraldine Moodie, one of Canada’s first professional female photographers; Olivia Poole, Anishinaabe inventor who created the Jolly Jumper; Violet King Henry, the first Black female lawyer in Canada; and many more.

Women on a Mission: The Remarkable Heroes Who Put Men on the Moon
By Suzanne Slade
Illustrated by Molly Magnell
Charlesbridge (October 2025)
Grade Level: 1–4

This book tells the story of the 12 extraordinary women who helped make the first moon landing a success. These “hidden figures”—like Hazel Fellows, who created the spacesuits, and Katherine Johnson, who verified the flight calculations—paved the way for future female astronauts, engineers, and other STEM roles at NASA. Be sure to download the accompanying Activity Kit.

The post Girl Power! 12 Inspiring Books for International Women’s Day appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

Sandy Yawn, the current lead and first female superyacht captain on Bravo’s reality TV series Below Deck Mediterranean, is one of the most recognized captains in the world. With over 30 years of international maritime experience, she has long inspired audiences and fellow crewmembers alike with her calm confidence at sea.

But before her illustrious career on the water began, Captain Sandy struggled with addiction as a teenager. After getting kicked out of eleventh grade, she found herself washing boats at a local Florida marina, a moment that unknowingly launched her future.

Today, Captain Sandy’s career has reached heights she never imagined, and she’s now helping others find their own fresh start through the same industry that changed her life.

Her foundation, Captain Sandy’s Charities, is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and educating tomorrow’s maritime leaders and environmental stewards. The charity champions inclusivity, sustainability, and career preparedness for students across Florida—building awareness for a rapidly growing sector that needs skilled, passionate professionals.

We recently spoke with Captain Sandy about how her foundation’s educational initiative, Steering Toward Success, is creating opportunities for young people to thrive in the maritime workforce.

The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Q: Why is it important for students to consider the marine industry as a viable career option?

The marine industry offers far more than just one career path. It offers many different options—from sales and charter brokerage, to shipyard work, to life at sea. Whether you want to stay on land or go offshore, there is a place for you.

And the opportunities are real. People who work in the marine industry can earn up to 20 percent more than many land-based jobs, often with full medical coverage and outstanding benefits. You travel, meet people from different nationalities and cultures, and build relationships all over the world.

Along the way, you also learn about navigation, the oceans, marine life, and the cities and ports you visit. The sea becomes your classroom, and the world opens up in ways that most other careers never offer.

For me, choosing a career in the marine industry was the best decision I ever made. It didn’t just give me a job, it gave me a life filled with purpose, growth, adventure, and opportunity.

Q: Steering Toward Success, the foundation’s educational program, is geared towards raising awareness of job opportunities in the marine industry for students across Florida. Could you tell us a bit about how the program works?

Captain Sandy’s Charities partnered with Young Minds Inspired, an organization composed of experienced educators, to develop an in-school curriculum approved by the State of Florida for use in every public school statewide.

Together, we successfully rolled out programs for elementary, middle, and high school students. The curriculum is delivered through digital education kits hosted online by Young Minds Inspired, allowing teachers across Florida to easily access and download the materials. Additionally, we produce printed educational posters that teachers can use in their classrooms, giving students a clear and engaging visual learning experience.

The program continues to evolve, advancing education and awareness within the maritime industry. Our long-term goal is to engage every teacher and student in Florida, creating lasting exposure to maritime careers, skills, and opportunities.

Q: What does career preparedness look like in the marine industry? What skills do students need?

Preparing to enter the industry starts early in a student’s education. Courses in math, science, technology, and hands-on learning help build a strong foundation, while marine-focused programs introduce students to real, achievable career paths.

Exposure is the next key step. Career days, field trips, internships, summer programs, and job shadowing make maritime careers tangible—not just an abstract idea. From there, certifications and specialized training become essential. Basic safety, first aid, navigation, engineering, or hospitality credentials can quickly open doors to entry-level opportunities.

Beyond technical training, aspiring maritime professionals should focus on developing life skills such as leadership, communication, time management, and confidence. These are just as important as hands-on expertise. And be sure to say “yes” to opportunities! Many maritime careers begin in entry-level roles, and showing initiative, reliability, and a positive attitude can accelerate long-term growth.

A key component of our program is an apprenticeship pathway, designed to help students explore different options within the marine industry and discover which role is the right fit for them.

Through hands-on experience and exposure to a variety of positions, students gain clarity about the job they want to pursue. Once that decision is made, many marine companies are even willing to invest in their future by sending them to schools where they can earn the required certifications.

For students interested in a career at sea, this often begins with attending a training center such as Maritime Professional Training, where they will complete their basic safety and foundational instruction. From there, students choose a career track—deck or interior—and continue with specialized classes aligned with their chosen position.

This structured approach gives students confidence, direction, and real-world preparation, while providing the marine industry with skilled, motivated professionals ready to succeed.

Q: Why are environmental awareness and sustainability such key parts of your program? How does Steering Toward Success address these concepts?

The ocean is not only beautiful, it’s essential to life on Earth. It produces the majority of the oxygen we breathe and provides a vital food source for people around the world. Protecting it isn’t optional; it’s our responsibility.

Ocean advocacy is so important to me, and because of that belief, I made sure that ocean stewardship and sustainability were embedded directly into the Steering Toward Success program. Its curriculum teaches students practical, everyday ways to protect the ocean. From reducing plastic use, to proper waste disposal, to choosing recycled and sustainable products.

By educating kids early, we’re not just teaching lessons—we’re shaping habits, values, and future leaders who will protect the ocean for generations to come.

Q: What kind of feedback are you receiving from students and teachers who use the Steering Toward Success program?

The feedback we’re getting has been very encouraging. Many students and teachers had no idea these jobs even existed, and that is exactly why we’re doing this. Our goal is to introduce students of all grade levels to the idea that there are opportunities for a different kind of career, one they may never have been exposed to before.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. All of the comments we’ve received have been so supportive, reinforcing the importance of early exposure, education, and awareness of the marine industry.

Q: What’s your vision for the future of the marine industry, as new generations of recent graduates begin to enter the workforce?

My vision, shared by many others in the industry, is to help create a generation of Americans who not only care for the ocean, but who also become stewards of the marine industry and are eager to work in it.

Over the years, I’ve seen a clear reality: many Americans don’t want to go to sea. As a result, much of the workforce abroad is made up of foreign crew, while American representation continues to decline.

That’s exactly why this work matters. We want young people to see the marine industry through a new lens—to understand the opportunities, the purpose, the adventure, and the long-term careers available both at sea and on land.

By introducing students early, we can change perceptions, spark curiosity, and build pride in maritime careers. Our goal is nothing less than to create a new generation of American seafarers, equipped with the skills, mindset, and passion to sustain and lead the marine industry into the future.

Q: What’s next for the Steering Toward Success program, and for your foundation in general?

What’s next for the foundation is expanding into mental health support, giving students real tools they can use when they face adversity, anxiety, pressure, or self-doubt—the very challenges I faced when I was young.

This phase is about helping students learn how to recenter, stay calm, and find clarity in moments that feel overwhelming. Our goal is to introduce practical strategies they can carry with them for life. I’ll also be sharing the tools and antidotes that I’ve used myself; the techniques that have helped me stay grounded, manage stress, and maintain peace of mind in high-pressure environments. These are simple, accessible practices, but they’re powerful.

By pairing career education with emotional resilience, we’re not just preparing students for jobs—we’re preparing them for life.

About Captain Sandy Yawn

Captain Sandy Yawn is a dynamic leader, international speaker, and businesswoman who has overcome obstacles on land and at sea. Her remarkable leadership has shattered barriers, and her integrity and courage earned her the Distinguished Crew Award from the International Superyacht Society in 2006. She embraced a new challenge as the series lead on Bravo’s Below Deck Mediterranean in 2015, inspiring audiences worldwide with her signature blend of conviction and passion for the sea.

The post Here’s How Captain Sandy Is Raising Awareness of Careers in the Marine Industry appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

These are turbulent times, and when the world feels uncertain, history can offer us a roadmap, lighting the path forward. In moments of unrest, we can look back to find courage—drawing strength from the leaders, changemakers, and everyday heroes who refused to back down in the face of hate and hardship.

As efforts to hide or erase these histories grow louder, bringing them into classroom feels more urgent than ever. That’s why we’re highlighting 14 new children’s books that celebrate notable figures in Black history. These are stories that deserve to be read, shared, and remembered in every elementary school.

From activists and abolitionists to history-makers and quiet trailblazers, these books introduce students to lives shaped by perseverance, bravery, and hope. Their journeys show young readers that strength can take many forms—and that even the boldest of dreams are possible when you dare to stand your ground.

The post 14 Children’s Books That Keep Black History Alive appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

By Kelsey McCallum

Across North America, books are disappearing from shelves in classrooms and libraries. This wave of censorship has increased in frequency over recent years—not just in the United States, but Canada as well, most recently with Alberta’s new school library standards. As groups, government entities, parents, and individuals continue to raise issues about the content of certain books, it’s important to consider the impact this will have on our students.

Frequently, books that address diverse topics, perspectives, and identities are the ones being targeted. Rather than removing or restricting access to this material, however, we should be celebrating these stories. All students have the right to see themselves reflected in the books they read. Not only does this help them feel supported, it also encourages a lifelong love of reading. Plus, having access to a wide range of reading options gives students the opportunity to learn about lives, communities, and cultures other than their own.

The post Shining a Spotlight on 10 Banned Books appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

By Kelsey McCallum

As LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly targeted around the world, there’s never been a more crucial time to uplift and celebrate queer stories. These K–12 books highlight queer identities, voices, and communities, while also introducing students to real-life LGBTQ+ activists and changemakers who are fighting for a more inclusive future. They’re perfect additions to your classroom or library in recognition of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (May 17), or Pride Month in June—and every day after that.  

The post 10 Books That Celebrate Queer Voices appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

By Kelsey McCallum

World Water Day is celebrated annually on March 22, in an effort to raise awareness of water scarcity and the global water crisis. Often many of us take water availability for granted—just a turn of the tap and it’s right at our fingertips. But did you know that more than one quarter of the world’s population lacks access to safe water (including a number of communities in both Canada and the United States)? Remedying this issue is one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals to achieve by the year 2030.

To get your students thinking about the value of water, we’ve handpicked a collection of new children’s books that will surely make a splash in your classroom or library this World Water Day—and every day after that, inspiring them to make every drop count!

The post 12 Books to Read for World Water Day and Beyond appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

By Kelsey McCallum

A 2019 UNESCO report revealed that nearly 1 in 3 students worldwide has been bullied within the past month. Bullying can take many forms, leaving children unsure of how to respond or where to seek help. To help address this issue, we’ve curated a list of impactful books that explore bullying from various perspectives. These stories can help kids see themselves in the characters, fostering empathy and understanding. Share these books with your students to spark meaningful conversations about bullying and empower them to stand up for themselves and others.

The post 10 Books That Tackle Bullying appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

By Kelsey McCallum

It is more important than ever to encourage today’s youth to become active, informed, and engaged members of democratic society. This starts by helping them understand how the justice system works—and there’s no better way to do so than by observing it in action! There are plenty of experiential learning opportunities out there that can give your students real-life exposure to court proceedings, judges, attorneys, and more. We’ve gathered a few of them here to be used as a starting point, or to inspire you to plan a class visit to a local courthouse in your area.

Canada’s Court System

Justice Education Society
Various locations, BC

Students and other community groups can choose from four in-person tours of courtrooms across British Columbia, as well as virtual education sessions for numerous other court locations—all offered by the Justice Education Society. In-person visits include an introduction to legal education, a court orientation, a chance to observe live court proceedings, and a debrief at the end. Some sessions also include a guest speaker. Be sure to check out the teaching resources provided by JES as well.

Law Courts
Winnipeg, MB

Free 45-minute tours of Winnipeg’s Law Courts Complex are available at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday to Thursday. Students will get to visit several courtrooms and the Great Library, while learning about the general workings of each different level of court in Manitoba. Tours also include a review of the cases scheduled that day, so students can determine which court proceeding they’d like to observe once the tour ends. You can even request a speaking session with a judge from either of Manitoba’s trial courts, who will discuss their typical duties, as well as the role of the courts in Canada’s justice system. These speaking sessions include plenty of opportunities for students to ask questions, so make sure they come prepared!

Ontario Justice Education Network
Various locations, ON

Through OJEN’s Classroom Visit program, students have the opportunity to observe real court proceedings and interact with professionals in the justice sector, such as judges, attorneys, lawyers, etc. OJEN facilitates visits to over 70 courts across Ontario, and also provides over 200 digital resources for use in classrooms and justice education programs.

Supreme Court of Canada
Ottawa, ON

Free school tours of the Supreme Court of Canada are offered Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. On this 45-minute tour, students will learn about the Canadian judicial system, the history of the Court, and some of the important legal issues it deals with. Tours may also include a short mock trial. Note that remote tours are available for classes who are unable to make it to the Court in-person, as are interactive quizzes and activities that can be found on the Supreme Court’s website.

United States Courts

Civics Learning Project
Various locations, OR

The Civics Learning Project offers four in-person courthouse tours across Oregon, as well as virtual tours and other video resources. For in-person tours, students will be given a brief orientation, then will see the law come alive as they watch real arraignments, hearings, and trials. Before going on the tour, be sure to take advantage of the background information and instructional materials that are provided. Additional classroom resources are available on the Civics Learning Project website (filter by “Courthouse Experience”). Note that self-guided tours are also offered at several of the courthouses.

John Joseph Moakley U.S. Courthouse
Boston, MA

Facilitated through the organization Discovering Justice, these interactive field trips take students on guided tours of the Moakley Courthouse, a notable Boston landmark. Students will learn more about the ideals of justice and democracy by exploring key features of the building, including an actual courtroom. Field trips are customizable, and each include one additional educational opportunity, such as visiting with a judge, observing a court proceeding, etc. Free virtual tours are also available.

U.S. District Court, District of Maine
Various locations, ME

The District of Maine has two federal courthouses, located in Portland and Bangor. School trips are available for either location, and include an orientation to provide the students with an overview of the federal courts and the history of the District of Maine, along with the observance of a court proceeding and a meeting with court staff or a judge.

U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida
Various locations, FL

Visit any of the Middle District of Florida’s five courthouses to help students learn more about the civil rights and responsibilities of citizens. Programs can be tailored to the needs of your classroom, and can include interactive historical exhibits, courtroom tours, a Q&A with a judge, and more! Additional resources are available on the District’s website, including sample discussion questions and sample mock trial scripts.

Here are some additional resources to inform, inspire, and educate your students about the United States Courts.

The post 8 Courthouse Tours Across North America appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

Light up your Hanukkah celebrations with these festive new books. Immerse yourself in the rich history, cherished traditions, and heartwarming stories that make the Festival of Lights so special. Perfect for kids and families, these books will keep the holiday spirit glowing all season long!

The post 12 Children’s Books to Read for Hanukkah appeared first on TEACH Magazine.

These days it can feel like we’re constantly inundated by nothing but bad news. With everything that’s happening in the world right now, in far off countries and closer to home, it’s easy to feel defeated—especially for kids. It’s up to us to remind them things aren’t hopeless, and that it’s never too late to take a stand. The voices of today’s youth can still be heard, and they have the power to take action in big and small ways for causes that matter to them.

To help you inspire your students to become agents of change, we’ve gathered this collection of K–12 books, published in 2024 and beyond, that focus on different forms of activism. From inspiring stories of everyday heroes—both real and fictional—to guidebooks that feature practical steps students can take to support their local and global communities, there’s a little something for everyone in this list.

The post 15 New and Upcoming Books for Student Activists appeared first on TEACH Magazine.