Commemoration of a Rondo Woman’s Commitment to Empowering Children
For nearly seven decades, St. Peter Claver Catholic School has stood as a pillar in the African American community of St. Paul. Lynn Wright, a significant figure at this local institution, has devoted a substantial part of her life to the school. In her role as the scholar and family liaison, she not only manages disciplinary issues but also extends assistance wherever needed.
Located in St. Paul, Minnesota (as documented by FOX 9), St. Peter Claver Catholic School has played a crucial role in the community for almost 70 years. Lynn Wright, aged 74, has been an indispensable member of the school community, dedicating a significant amount of time to its activities. Besides her responsibilities in upholding discipline as the scholar and family liaison, she is always ready to provide support wherever it is necessary.
Expressing her profound connection to the children and the school environment, Wright expressed, “I adore the kids. I relish being in their company. This feels like home.”
Having been a student at the same school during her elementary school years in the late ‘50s and early ‘60s, Wright has observed substantial changes in the neighborhood. This era coincided with the construction of I-94, connecting downtown Minneapolis to downtown St. Paul, which had a profound impact on the Rondo neighborhood, displacing numerous families and Black-owned businesses.
Reflecting on those times, Wright shared, “We were not fully aware of what was happening. I believe I was in eighth grade. So we were unaware of the displacements taking place. We didn’t grasp that aspect of it.”
Wright’s affiliation with St. Peter Claver commenced in the early ‘80s when she served as a teacher’s aide until the school closed at the end of the decade. However, she returned when the school reopened in the late ‘90s and has remained steadfast in her role ever since.
Underscoring her dedication and bond with the community, Wright stated, “At my age, I prefer not to stay at home. I derive pleasure from what I do. When you reside in the same neighborhood as most of the kids, you know their parents, you know their other relatives. So you have an understanding of what they experience.”
The school’s motto, “We Are One Family,” deeply resonates with the individuals at St. Peter Claver, with Wright epitomizing this sentiment wholeheartedly.
Principal Terese Shimshock described Wright as the matriarch of St. Peter Claver, highlighting her pivotal role within the school community. Shimshock remarked, “She embodies the essence of the building. She embodies the people. Everyone is somehow connected to Miss Wright. St. Paul is challenging enough, but it seems everyone is linked to her in some way.”
A special moment in Wright’s day is sharing lunch with her granddaughter, who teaches 7th and 8th grade at the school. Their interactions are filled with joy and meaningful dialogues, bridging the generation gap and nurturing a sense of familial unity within the school community.
While uncertain about the duration of her continued service at the school, Wright’s dedication and influence on future generations are indisputable, leaving an enduring legacy for the community.
Regarding her future intentions, Wright mentioned, “I stated that I would commit for another year, and then we will evaluate. So, I will dedicate another year, and then we will assess the situation. Who knows what the future holds?”