Educators: Margaret McMillan

Margaret McMillan (1860-1931) was a nursery school pioneer, educator, and social activist who dedicated her life to helping others — the hungry, the working poor, and the often exploited. She defied the popular view during her time that children were meant for work and quiet obedience, and fostered their wellbeing, their imagination, and invested in their development. Working in poor areas of London, Margaret also campaigned for reforms to improve the health of school age children, including annual health inspections, installing bathrooms in schools, improving ventilation, and supplying free school meals for children in need. She also pioneered a play-centred approach to nursery school that is widely accepted and used today. For those of you tuning in for the first time, welcome! Here’s the deal: Every weekday, we highlight the stories of iconic women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. We’re talking about women from around the world and throughout history. Each month is themed. This month we’re going back to school, highlighting educators and intellectuals.