Shrub Oak International School marked the beginning of Women’s History Month with thoughtful, student-centered activities that combined creativity, expression, and meaningful connection. Through collaborative arts and crafts and student-led interviews, the campus community came together to recognize and celebrate the contributions and impact of women in both personal and broader contexts.
One of the highlights of the celebration was a hands-on arts and crafts initiative that invited both students and staff to create flower pens. These colorful, handmade items were thoughtfully designed as tokens of appreciation for the women across campus. Students engaged in a creative process that emphasized fine motor skills, attention to detail, and artistic expression. The finished flower pens were then made available for women on campus to pick up, serving as a small but meaningful gesture of recognition and gratitude.
Students were not only participating in an art project, but also engaging in a purposeful act of giving. By contributing to something that would be shared with others, students practiced perspective-taking and developed a deeper understanding of appreciation and community. The act of creating something by hand for others fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment, while reinforcing the importance of kindness and acknowledgment.
In addition to the arts and crafts initiative, students in the Newsletter Club took on the role of interviewers, connecting directly with women on campus who inspire them. These interviews provided students with an opportunity to develop communication and journalism skills in a supportive, structured environment. Students prepared questions, engaged in conversations, and documented responses, all while building confidence in their ability to interact with others.
The interviews themselves highlighted a diverse range of voices and experiences within the Shrub Oak International School community. From educators and clinicians to administrative staff, students selected individuals who have made a meaningful impression on their daily lives. Through these conversations, students gained insight into the personal and professional journeys of the women they admire, learning about their roles, challenges, and sources of inspiration.
Importantly, these activities were designed to be accessible and inclusive, ensuring that all students could participate in ways that align with their individual strengths and communication styles. Whether through hands-on crafting or structured interviews, each student had the opportunity to engage in a manner that was both meaningful and appropriate.
By combining creative expression with authentic social interaction, Shrub Oak International School’s Women’s History Month programming exemplified its commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive community. The flower pens and student interviews served as tangible and lasting reminders of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the women who contribute to the life of the campus each day.
