Ayla Bornsztein: Student Performs in The Guthrie’s ‘A Christmas Carol’

Ayla Bornsztein maintains a 4.0 GPA, volunteers as a student aide at Murray Middle School, and pursues her passion for acting in The Guthrie Theater’s production of “A Christmas Carol”. Her parents and teachers work together to help her balance her schoolwork, extracurriculars, and friendships so she can achieve her dreams.

Tory Envy: Breaking Boundaries, Encouraging Representation in Media, and Keeping Hmong Literacy Alive

Tory developed her love of reading as a student at Cherokee Heights Elementary, and now writes children's books in Hmong and English to inspire kids like her.

Kehinde Olafeso: Creating a Safe Learning Environment for Our Students

Kehinde Olafeso, also known as Coach K, and other SPPS school and community support liaisons work closely with school staff to develop relationships with students.

Cole Spitzer: Central’s First Division I Baseball Signee in 28 Years

Growing up as a Derek Jeter fan, it would be no surprise if Cole Spitzer had gone on to be a prized shortstop. But at 9 years old, he “volunteered” to start pitching and the rest is history.

Jenny Konkel: Nominated for ESP of the Year

SPPS education assistant Jenny Konkel was named one of four finalists for the 2022-23 Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year award from Education Minnesota.

Ramón Lozano: Bilingual EA at Johnson Senior Is Beloved by All

Mr. Lozano is a longtime bilingual educational assistant at Johnson Senior High School. He has worked for SPPS for 38 years and is beloved by students and colleagues alike. Here is his story as well as the stories of other proud Hispanic and Latinx staff in SPPS.

Cherise Ayers: Central's New Principal Is No Stranger

It’s a homecoming for Cherise Ayers, a second-generation Central alumna who graduated in 1997. After a long and winding road, she’s found her way home again.

Mwene Kajunju: Alum Paints Marny Xiong Memorial Mural

Mural artist Mwene "MK" Kajunju was chosen by Marny Xiong's family to paint a mural of the late School Board member who died from COVID-19 in 2020. The mural serves as a memorial to her life and lasting impact on the entire Saint Paul Public Schools community.

Alex Le: Como Student Awarded JROTC Legion of Valor Bronze Cross

Alex Le is being inducted into an elite club. The Junior Reserved Officer Training Corps (JROTC) cadet will receive the Legion of Valor Bronze Cross award.

Abdullahi Soyan: SPPS Translations Specialist Publishes Children's Book

Somali Translations Specialist Abdullahi Soyan recently published his first children's picture book called "When River Stopped Singing to Cloud".