Holly Dobyrnski, who teaches English 10 and AP English literature, and her thoughts on the impact of women, the challenges they still face, and the importance of supporting one another. 

    When asked about a woman who inspires her, Dobrynski pointed to rugby player Lana Meyer. She admires Meyer not only for her strength, but also for her confidence and self-acceptance. According to Dobrynski, Meyer represents what it means to embrace who you are while also uplifting other women.

    Dobrynski also reflected on the influence women have had in her own life. She credited her tenth-grade English teacher as a major inspiration, saying that teacher encouraged her to pursue a career in education and supported her growth as a writer.

    Despite progress, Dobrynski believes women still face significant challenges. She explained that women are often expected to succeed in every role at once, such as excelling in their careers and being perfect mothers, all the while being questioned if they are on the right. “We have to be all things to everyone,” said Dobrynski, emphasizing that women are rarely given a break from these expectations. 

    When asked about a moment that made her proud to be a woman, she recalled leading her volleyball team into state playoffs. She described it as an empowering experience, highlighting how a team of girls came together and succeeded through hard work and determination.

    She has also found pride in supporting other women. As a former birth and postpartum doula, she helped women through labor and recovery, calling those experiences some of her most meaningful. Supporting women during such important moments showed her how strong and capable they truly are. 

    Dobrynski stressed the importance of Women’s History Month, explaining that women play many roles in society–as mothers, sisters, friends, and leaders–and deserve recognition for their contributions. She also pointed out that there are many overlooked women in history. One example she gave was the wife of Charles Dickens. While Dickens is known for writing A Christmas Carol and promoting values like kindness and generosity, Dobrynski notes that his wife’s story is often ignored, despite the hardships she faced in the marriage and the support she gave Dickens. 

    In terms of how schools can better support young women, Dobrynski emphasized equality, especially in sports. She believes girls athletic programs should receive the same level of funding, recognition, and respect as boys programs, without having to fight for it. She also added that equal acknowledgment should extend to academics. 

    Dobrynski’s advice to young women is simple but powerful: support one another. She encouraged girls to uplift each other instead of competing, pointing out that there is already enough pressure in the world without turning against each other. 

    Overall, Dobrynski’s perspective highlights the importance of strength, equality, and unity among women, values that continue to shape conversations during Women’s History mMonth and beyond.