Every year, EngineerGirl hosts a writing contest for students in grades 3-12. The specific rules and topic differ each year, but the general theme focuses on engineering and its impact on our world. The topic and detailed instructions for the contest are posted in September with a deadline for submissions on February 1st. Winners are announced in June and posted on the website. When a new contest is posted the associated materials include a special note for educators and a guide for using the contest as a class project. (Note that we do not serve as a vendor for specific schools so a parent/guardian for each student must approve their entry in the contest.)
Challenge stereotypes
Engineers are a diverse group of professionals working in all areas of society. Present students with diverse engineering role models. The EngineerGirl Gallery of Women Engineers profiles many engineers and links to Interviews and other resources that can help challenge conventional ideas about engineering. Most of the women in the Gallery would be open to doing a virtual interview or presentation with a class of students. Some may even visit in person if they live nearby. Use the "Ask me a question" button on any engineer's profile to see if she might be willing to talk to your students. You can also use the "Filters" button at the top of the list to search for engineers in your state.
Provide engineering experiences
Engineering projects are a great way to develop math, science, and problem-solving skills. Look in the Resources for Educators list for relevant National Academies reports, lesson plans, teacher materials, and more. Check out the 2020 report on Promising Practices for Addressing the Underrepresentation of Women in Science, Engineering, and Medicine for techniques that will help make a difference. You can also visit the Teach Engineering site to discover resources about engineering, connect with other educators and schools, and develop lessons and other materials for your students. You may also find that Competitions and Contests are a great way to get your students involved with engineering.
Encourage collaboration
Team projects provide students the opportunity to interact and learn from each other in ways similar to real-world engineering teams. Make sure that girls take on meaningful roles in team projects and are not just taking notes.
Help start or sponsor an engineering club or team
One way to do this might be by working with the Society for Women Engineers (SWE). You can learn more about becoming a SWE Educator Member or starting a SWENext Club on the SWE Website.