The York County School Board discussed having county residents give input on renaming Magruder Elementary School.
- Community Input Sought: York County School Board is seeking feedback from residents on potentially renaming Magruder Elementary School.
- Discussion Timeline: The board discussed the issue at a Monday work session, with Superintendent Victor D. Shandor tasked to draft survey options for review on May 19 or June 2.
- Reason for Renaming: Research indicates the school may be indirectly named after Confederate General John Bankhead Magruder, who ordered the 1861 burning of Hampton and was involved in capturing runaway slaves.
- Alternative Naming Origin: Some argue the school is named after the Magruder village, a former Black community displaced by Camp Peary during World War II, though the village name likely derives from the general.
- Policy Concerns: Board member Lynda Fairman noted that renaming Magruder could require renaming Tabb Elementary, Middle, and High Schools, as the division’s policy avoids naming schools after individuals.
- Community Involvement: Board member James E. Richardson emphasized the need for input from the entire community before deciding.
- Grassroots Efforts: The Campaign for Honorable and Inclusive School Names has pushed for the rename, alongside efforts to rename James Blair Middle School in Williamsburg-James City County.
- Survey Integrity: Board Chair Kimberly S. Goodwin stressed that community input is essential and requested a survey plan to ensure only county residents vote, with measures to prevent multiple submissions.
