April 22, 2025
Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) officially broke ground on the new Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy (PRMX), Tuesday, April 22. The historical groundbreaking ceremony was held at the future site of the school. It was attended by community members, students, educators, alumni, and District leadership, including Board President Bishop Corletta J. Vaughn, Ph.D., Vice President LaTrice McClendon, Sherry Gay-Dagnogo, Monique Bryant, and Dr. Ida Short, celebrated this milestone in DPSCD’s long-term commitment to modern, equitable education.
The school’s name pays tribute to two iconic leaders—Paul Robeson and Malcolm X—who, though from different eras, shared a powerful commitment to Black excellence, self-determination, and social justice. Robeson, an acclaimed artist and civil rights advocate, and Malcolm X, a fearless voice for Black empowerment and global human rights, both stood as unapologetic champions for equity, education, and the transformation of Black communities. The new PRMX facility honors their enduring legacy by cultivating a space where students are inspired to lead, learn, and uplift.
“The investment in Malcolm X is an intentional one," said Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Superintendent of DPSCD. “When I was reviewing the facility master plan, one of the very first recommendations I made to the school board was for a new building at Paul Robeson Malcolm X. I made that recommendation because this is a stake in the ground. A stake that declares African-centered education matters, and that it especially matters here in Detroit. The city’s demographics are shifting, and by investing $29 million into this new building, we’re sending a clear message to all Detroiters: this legacy, this history, matters — and it’s not going anywhere.”
PRMX will continue to serve students in grades PK–8 through a unique African-centered educational model that combines academic excellence with cultural empowerment. This culturally responsive approach is designed to help students excel both academically and socially in the 21st century. The 71,000-square-foot facility will include 24 classrooms, a science lab, music and art rooms, a health suite, a family and volunteer center, and a dedicated Harambe Room for project-based learning. Outdoor amenities will include play spaces, student courtyards, and dedicated areas for outdoor dining and learning.
This initiative marks Phase 2 of the campus reconstruction, following the completion of abatement and demolition in Fall 2024. Construction began this spring, with completion anticipated in 2027. The PRMX project is one of several new school construction efforts across the District—including at Pershing, Cody, Southeastern, and Brenda Scott—as part of DPSCD’s Facilities Master Plan (FMP) to address infrastructure disparities through community-led planning and reinvestment.
“This moment is incredibly meaningful for our school community. The new Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy is more than just a building—it’s a symbol of pride, progress, and the power of education rooted in culture and community,” said Principal Jeffrey Robinson. “Our students deserve a space that reflects their brilliance, honors their heritage, and supports their growth. We’re excited to see this vision come to life and continue building a legacy of excellence for generations to come.”
For more information about the Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy or the District’s Facilities Master Plan, please visit www.detroitk12.org.
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About Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy
Paul Robeson Malcolm X Academy is a public PK–8 school within DPSCD dedicated to academic excellence and African-centered education. The school’s mission is to prepare students for success in the classroom and in life through a curriculum rooted in heritage, community, and excellence. PRMX fosters confidence, creativity, and leadership in every student it serves.
About DPSCD
Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is Michigan’s largest public education system. It is governed by a locally elected, seven-member School Board with Dr. Nikolai Vitti serving as Superintendent. The District’s mission is to provide every student with a high-quality education to prepare every student for college and/or a career by honing their unique talents and interests as students. The District has more than 100 schools and educates 48,000 children. For more information, visit detroitk12.org and follow @detroitk12 on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
