In 1970, a seismic shift occurred at Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan, marking a turning point in its 79-year history. The institution, renowned as one of New York City's "elite" high schools, embraced co-education. This transformative moment was not merely a matter of policy; it was the culmination of a groundbreaking legal battle led by a young woman whose name would fade into obscurity: Alice De Rivera. Alice's journey began quietly but would ultimately reverberate through the corridors of academia for generations to come. At just 13 years old, she challenged the Board of Education's discriminatory policy, which barred girls from taking the special entrance exam. Her lawsuit, filed a year before Stuyvesant's historic transition, asserted that denying girls equal access to education was a violation of their rights under the law. With the support of the National Emergency Civil Liberties Committee, Alice pursued her case in the State Supreme Court, setting a precedent for gender equality in education. Despite not attending Stuyvesant herself, Alice's impact was profound. Her unwavering determination inspired nine other girls to become the school's first female students, heralding a new era of diversity and inclusivity. Beyond Stuyvesant's walls, the ripple effects of Alice's lawsuit were far-reaching. Lower and higher education institutions nationwide began reassessing their policies, leading to a domino effect of co-education. Alice's courageous stand catalyzed a movement that challenged entrenched norms and paved the way for greater opportunities for women in education. Today, Alice De Rivera lives a life characterized by humility and service. Residing on a farm in Maine with her husband, a retired math professor, she continues to embody the principles of equality and justice that defined her youth. Her legacy as a pioneer for gender equality in education endures a testament to the power of one individual to ignite change and inspire future generations to advocate for a more equitable world.

click here