Gordon Parks High School

What if a school could embody resilience? Gordon Parks High School, right here on University Avenue, does just that. Gordon Parks High School opened in 1991 as the Saint Paul Area Learning Center. It was a haven for at-risk students, initially housed in a leased space in the Unidale Mall. The school, later known as Unidale Alternative Learning Center, served a crucial role in the community. It provided a path to graduation for students who might have otherwise fallen through the cracks. The original location was small, just 8,000 square feet. But it expanded over the years, adding classrooms and resources to meet the growing needs of its students. In 2007, Gordon Parks High School moved to its current location. This marked a new chapter for the school. The new building, designed with sloping glass walls, was a symbol of hope and opportunity. The school was named after Gordon Parks, a renowned photographer, filmmaker, and writer who grew up in Saint Paul. Like many of the students the school serves, Parks faced adversity in his youth, including homelessness and dropping out of high school. His story became an inspiration. The school adopted his legacy, creating programs focused on film, photography, writing, and art. These programs encouraged students to find their voices and express themselves creatively. Gordon Parks High School isn’t just a place of learning; it’s a place of transformation. It’s a testament to the power of education to uplift and empower. Sadly, in 2020, the school suffered arson damage during the George Floyd protests. This act of violence shook the community. But it also highlighted the school’s resilience. Gordon Parks High School remains a vital resource for Saint Paul’s at-risk youth. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and opportunity can prevail.