JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) - A Mississippi elementary school, formerly named after Jefferson Davis, is going to be renamed after President Barack Obama.
While some say it's a great idea, others say the change is trivial.
Davis Magnet IB Elementary School has been renamed Barack Obama IB Elementary School. The change will officially happen at the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year.
"It's a good thing for the students to see that someone like Barack Obama can be the President of the United States and go to a school named after him," said one parent.
The parents, community and supporters of the school began a dialogue back in August and recently voted on October 5 to rename the school that many say reflects the old Confederate era.
The PTA President Janelle Jefferson said, “The school community wanted to rename the campus to reflect a person who fully represents ideals and public stances consistent with what we want our children to believe about themselves."
“I wholeheartedly agree with the name,” said Board President Camille Simms.
“I applaud the efforts of our students, parents, staff, and community who participated in this open process, said Principal Dr. Kathleen Grigsby. “We will continue to honor the name of our school by achieving high academic performance.”
There are two others schools in the district named after leaders with Confederate ties. While some feel renaming the schools will remove a period in history rooted in racial violence, others say a name change won't change history.
"I would think the name of the school would be relevant," said another parent, "But I want the quality of education to maintain high standards."
Another JPS parent said, "I think it is kind of even because there is nothing wrong with David Magnet, but if they want to change it I will go along with it."
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