Benjamin E. Mays Afrocentric Magnet School Opens in St. Paul’s Historic Rondo Neighborhood
St. Paul Public Schools has opened the Benjamin E. Mays Afrocentric Magnet School in the historic Rondo neighborhood.
Minneapolis St. Paul, MN, September 16, 2026 —
St. Paul Public Schools (SPPS) has officially opened the Benjamin E. Mays Afrocentric Magnet School, marking a new educational chapter for the district. The school is situated in the historic Rondo neighborhood, an area with deep cultural significance for the city of St. Paul.
The opening of this magnet school is intended to provide an Afrocentric educational approach, focusing on the history, culture, and contributions of people of African descent. While specific details regarding the curriculum beyond its Afrocentric focus were not provided, the establishment of such a program aims to offer students a specialized learning environment.
The Benjamin E. Mays Afrocentric Magnet School will serve students within the St. Paul Public Schools district. Further information regarding grade levels served, enrollment figures, or the specific architectural or facility details of the new school was not immediately available. The exact timeline leading up to the opening, including planning and construction phases, has not been detailed.
The Rondo neighborhood itself has a rich history, particularly in the mid-20th century, before urban renewal projects led to significant displacement of its residents. The siting of a new school named after Benjamin E. Mays, a prominent educator and civil rights leader, in this neighborhood underscores a connection to the community’s heritage.
Benjamin E. Mays was a significant figure in American education and activism. He served as the president of Morehouse College for nearly four decades and was a mentor to many influential leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr. Naming the school after him highlights a commitment to educational excellence and social justice.
The full operational capacity and the specific programs offered at the Benjamin E. Mays Afrocentric Magnet School will be subjects of further reporting as the school year progresses and more information becomes available from St. Paul Public Schools.
Story summarized from the original created by Maury.Glover@fox.com (Maury Glover) on www.fox9.com, see more information here.
