Philando Castile devoted his working life to Minnesota’s public schools, so it was fitting that one of them—his high school—honored him with a benefit concert on Sunday.
Castile, who was shot dead by a police officer at a traffic stop on July 6, graduated from St. Paul Central High School in 2001. Yesterday his former classmates celebrated his life there with live music, DJs, activities for children, and plenty of food.
It’s that last part that was especially appropriate for remembering Castile, who worked as a cafeteria supervisor at J.J. Hill Montessori Magnet School, also in St. Paul. Proceeds from the event will go toward a new scholarship in Castile’s name, for students who wish to study culinary arts or childhood development. (You can donate to it here.)
John Thompson, a friend of Castile’s who was at the concert, told the St. Paul Pioneer Press about Castile’s devotion to the students he served, even opting to work at an additional school, Chelsea Heights Elementary, serving lunches to summer school students.
Thompson asked his friend why he would give up his summer vacation.
“Because I love the kids,” Castile told him.
