February 9, 2026
In the new Ms. article “Misogyny Is Rising in U.S. Classrooms. Where Is the National Response?” Stop Sexual Assault in Schools Co-founder and Program Director Joel Levin examines the growing presence of misogyny and gender-based harassment in U.S. schools.
Levin documents how students and educators are encountering misogynistic language, sexual “jokes,” harassment, and harmful gender stereotypes in K–12 schools, while online influencers and social media amplify these messages and reinforce increasingly hostile views toward women and girls.
There is a significant gap between the challenges facing U.S. schools and the coordinated national responses emerging in countries including the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Levin argues that U.S. schools need a comprehensive approach that begins early, engages boys without stigmatizing them, teaches students to critically evaluate online content, and creates opportunities for student-led dialogue and peer education.
The article highlights SSAIS’s #MisogynyFreeSchools campaign, which provides educators with resources and strategies for recognizing and addressing misogyny and gender bias. The campaign also promotes student-led initiatives such as Students Against Sexual Harassment (SASH) Clubs, digital literacy, supportive school policies, and whole-school approaches to creating safer and more respectful learning environments.
“Schools should follow the example of other nations that are rolling out policies and programs to counter rampant gender bias and misogyny,” Levin writes. He calls for schools, families, educators, and community organizations to work together to address misogyny at its roots and build a culture of respect and gender equity.
Read the article.