Introduction to Aaron Mossell Junior High School
Welcome to Aaron Mossell Junior High School, a place where we honor the legacy of Aaron Mossell, a remarkable individual whose contributions to education and the community continue to inspire us today. Our school embraces the core message of "We All Belong," reflecting our commitment to inclusivity, and diversity, and providing a supportive environment for every student.
About Aaron Mossell
Aaron Mossell was an exceptionally successful and philanthropic business owner who made significant contributions to Lockport’s community. He owned a brickyard that employed a diverse workforce of over 40 individuals, demonstrating his dedication to providing opportunities for people from various backgrounds. His generosity extended beyond his business as he donated bricks for the construction of several important structures in Lockport, including the AME Church on South Street and the original Lockport High School on High Street.
In addition to his brickyard, Aaron Mossell built and operated one of the most prestigious hotels in Niagara County around 1896. Located at the intersection of Pine and Walnut Streets, this hotel was ahead of its time, featuring steam heat, gas lighting, and electricity. It hosted numerous prominent guests, including banking giant JP Morgan.
Aaron Mossell was a self-educated man who passionately believed that all individuals deserved a quality education. He understood that education was the key to success and equality, and he championed this belief throughout his life. In 1872, he initiated the process to desegregate the Lockport City School District, driven by his desire for his children and other marginalized individuals to have the same access to education as their white peers.
His relentless perseverance led to the desegregation of the Lockport City School District in 1876. This remarkable achievement occurred 80 years before the landmark Supreme Court decision in Brown vs. Board of Education (1955) which eliminated segregation in schools across the United States.
Our Commitment
At Aaron Mossell Junior High School, we are proud to uphold the values that Aaron Mossell exemplified: humility, honesty, integrity, inclusion, perseverance, and success. His legacy is reflected in our dedication to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed.
Our students are encouraged to strive for excellence, embrace diversity, and understand the importance of education in achieving their dreams. We believe that every student is a valued member of our school community, and we are committed to ensuring that "We All Belong."
Join us at Aaron Mossell Junior High School, where we honor the past, celebrate the present, and build a brighter future for every student. Together, we continue Aaron Mossell's mission of providing access to quality education for all!
