The Uncertain Fate of the Giuseppe Di Matteo Elementary School: A Blow Against Mafia Symbolism

The elementary school in Castelvetrano, named after the late Giuseppe Di Matteo, a young boy kidnapped, murdered, and dissolved in acid by the Mafia as a reprisal against his informer father, faces the possibility of closure.

The process of changing its name (previously named after Ruggero Settimo) was initiated in March 2023 and concluded with a decree from the Trapani Provincial Education Office after the arrest of Matteo Messina Denaro. The symbolic renaming, given the involvement of Messina Denaro in the kidnapping, was proposed by the local section of the National Magistrates Association.

A significant mural inspired by Giuseppe Di Matteo now adorns the school's main facade since May, commemorating the tragic event and serving as a visible stand against organized crime.

Current Issue:
However, recent decisions by the Sicilian Regional Conference on December 5th have raised concerns about the school's future. The proposal is to close it and distribute the students between two existing comprehensive institutes in the city. The primary issue lies in the existing educational structure in Castelvetrano. The first educational district has two middle schools, while the second, named after Di Matteo, has none.

The proposal from the Mayors' Committee and the municipality suggested either maintaining the current school arrangement based on the community's educational needs or a "verticalization" plan, involving the exchange of facilities between educational institutions. Despite local approval and efforts by Mayor Enzo Alfano, the Sicilian Region rejected these proposals.

Community Response:
The Mayor expressed his discontent with the decision, emphasizing the inappropriateness of the "unconditional" closure of the Giuseppe Di Matteo Educational Directorate without considering alternative proposals. He highlighted the verticalization plan as aligned with educational principles and parameters.

The closure of the school, which represents a symbolic defiance against the Mafia, raises concerns about the potential loss of a crucial educational institution for the civic growth and active citizenship education in a region historically affected by Mafia activities.

If the Giuseppe Di Matteo school indeed closes, the mural, once a symbol of resistance, could transform into a poignant emblem of defeat.