Simmons School Cleanup

Counterpublic is hosting a volunteer cleanup of the Simmons School on Saturday, October 31, from 10 AM to 1 PM. The school sits at 4318 St. Louis Ave. in The Ville, and it's a site with a long history in St. Louis education: it's been a cornerstone of St. Louis Avenue and African American education in the neighborhood since 1873. Later it became the first Black teachers college west of the Mississippi River, operating as Harriet Beecher Stowe Teachers College from 1890 to 1954.

That history is also the subject of Timmy Simonds' work, Harriet Beecher Stowe Teachers College (STC) at Simmons Elementary (Miss Othmar), which explores the school's legacy. The cleanup is run in partnership with River Blues Community Development Organization and Fleur de Lis Development Corporation, and Community Engagement Manager Abraham Diaz will be on site to welcome everyone. The whole thing is part of Counterpublic, a triennial exhibition that reimagines the possibilities of art in public life.

If you're planning to help out, there are a few things to keep in mind. You'll need closed-toe shoes or boots and clothing you don't mind getting dirty, and you should expect some heavy lifting. Gloves and N95 masks are provided on site, and you'll need to sign a waiver when you arrive. Water and light snacks will be served, and if you haven't signed up yet, day-of registration is an option. The cleanup is free and open to the public, running from 10 AM to 1 PM at 4318 St. Louis Ave.