Charleston School Board Reevaluates Naming Policy

Community members discussing school naming policies

News Summary

The Charleston County School District Board is reviewing a policy change to prioritize geographical names for new schools over honoring individuals. This follows controversy over naming schools after historical figures amid discussions on racial sensitivity. The decision to name the new elementary school Johns Island Elementary instead of honoring local civil rights activists has sparked community debate. Board members express concerns that racial bias may influence naming choices, with calls for greater recognition of local historical figures.

Charleston, SC – The Charleston County School District Board of Trustees is currently reviewing a proposed policy change regarding the naming of new schools, aiming to shift the practice from honoring individuals to emphasizing geographic locations. This consideration arises amidst ongoing controversy surrounding the naming of buildings and monuments linked to historical figures, particularly in the context of racial sensitivity and community representation.

At the forefront of this debate is the naming of the new Johns Island Elementary School. A proposal to honor local civil rights activists Esau and Jeanie Jenkins, who were instrumental in advocating for the education of Black students on Johns Island, faced significant pushback. The board ultimately voted to name the school Johns Island Elementary, focusing on local identity as a guiding principle.

Community members, including Char Fitzwater, have expressed frustration at this decision, arguing that it negates Charleston County’s long tradition of naming schools after influential individuals. Fitzwater highlighted the concern that many proposed geographical names still indirectly reference notable figures, questioning the reasoning behind not honoring prominent local educators like the Jenkins.

Amid these discussions, board member Kevin Hollinshead raised awareness of potential racial bias influencing the decision-making process. He suggested that the motivations behind the policy could inadvertently limit honors for African Americans who have made significant contributions to local history.

Superintendent Anita Huggins confirmed that her administration is working closely with trustees to ensure the best approach is taken regarding school naming policies. The proposed shift is not expected to impact existing schools already named after individuals, such as Lucy Beckham High School or Burke High.

The committee responsible for naming the new school undertook extensive discussions, considering various options. The final recommendation included either “Johns Island Elementary” or “Esau Jenkins Elementary.” However, based on recent community feedback, primarily from a Facebook poll where 72% of respondents favored Johns Island Elementary, the board made its choice.

Moreover, the deliberations included concerns over racial dimensions during the public comment section of the board meeting, with board members suggesting that future commemorative efforts or campaigns could be devised to recognize local historical figures. Despite these proposals, no formal plans have since been established.

The committee that recommended the name was composed of various stakeholders, including parents, community members, teachers, and district staff. Their intent was to reflect the preferences of the local community while adhering to the district’s policy, which allows for naming schools after significant local individuals only if they hold special relevance to the district.

The ongoing discussions and variance of opinion among board members and community advocates highlight the delicate balance required in honoring local history while being sensitive to contemporary perspectives on race and representation. Darlene Roberson, a board member who opposed the name change, asserted that the decision overlooked the contributions of significant local educators and civil rights figures in the community’s history.

As the committee continues to refine the proposed policy change, stakeholders eagerly await the next steps in this evolving dialogue on the significance of school naming practices in Charleston County.