Wen Yingshi

Wen Ying-shi (February 1895 – February 1960), courtesy name Langxian, of Han ethnicity, was born in Yixingpu, a suburb of Tianjin. His parents and family background are not detailed, but his upbringing was influenced by a good educational environment. In 1919, Wen Ying-shi was recommended to serve as the principal of Minli Fifth Elementary School, marking the beginning of his career in education. His teaching philosophy emphasized care for impoverished students, and he previously waived tuition fees to help children from rural families, especially impoverished girls, receive education.

In public education administration, Wen Ying-shi began serving in 1925 as acting inspector of Tianjin County Education Bureau, and as an education committee member and supervisor for Tianjin’s three districts. In September 1930, influenced by his fellow townsman and senior figure in education, Wen Shilin, he actively planned to convert the village's Niangniang Temple into a school. The initiative was halted due to opposition. During the 1930s, Wen Ying-shi founded the Puyu (Shifan) Private Girls’ Elementary School, serving as its principal until September 1950. During his tenure, he designed the school flag and emblem, established the motto "Diligence and Truth," implemented uniform school attire and school songs, and dedicated himself to promoting the spirit of Puyu school operations.

Wen Ying-shi worked in the education field for over forty years, serving as principal for more than thirty years. Throughout his career, he devoted himself to nurturing young students, advocating for women’s right to education, and substantially improving admission conditions for impoverished students. The Puyu Girls’ Elementary School he founded was transformed into Shifan Elementary School in 1936, and he continued to provide tuition waivers for students with limited financial means.

Regarding his family, seven of Wen Ying-shi’s children pursued careers in education, forming a prominent educational family. Notably, his eldest son Wen Gang, second son Wen Qiang, and grandson Wen Jiabao all gained recognition in the field of education. Additionally, Wen Ying-shi's younger brother was Wen Pengjiu.

Wen Ying-shi passed away in February 1960 at the age of 65. He is recognized in modern Chinese educational history as a People's Educator who had a profound impact on the development of basic education. His lifelong contributions include promoting women’s education, supporting impoverished students, and organizing school construction, reflecting a sustained commitment to educational equity and widespread access.