SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Today, Representative Samakab Hussein (DFL – Saint Paul) and María Isa Pérez-Vega (DFL-Saint Paul) joined Dr. Joe Gothard, Superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools; Dr. Abdisalam Adam, Principal of East African Elementary Magnet School; Director of the Saint Paul Board of Education Halla Henderson; Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter; and Saint Paul Councilmember Russel Balenger as they announced the opening of a new East African Elementary Magnet School for the 2023-24 school year.
Representatives Samakab Hussein and María Isa Pérez-Vega released the following statement,
“It is essential for students from marginalized communities to see themselves reflected in the academic environment. When students feel a sense of belonging and acceptance it improves their ability to engage with their peers and teachers. Ultimately, this leads to better student outcomes and school culture. Research has shown that when students see representations of themselves, it shapes how they imagine their place in the world now and in the future. As a co-author of the Ethnic Studies legislation, I look forward to it being passed this session. Our students deserve to make decisions about their education and what global history they want to learn about.
“It is with great pride and celebration to welcome the grand opening of East African Elementary Magnet School. We at the legislature have been fighting so our diverse communities can learn and share their culture through education and early childhood curriculums, to allow every child to reach their highest potential.”