Student Voices Matter
Following a robust community engagement and consultation process, ACPS moved into phase two of The Identity Project as we consider new names for both T.C. Williams High School and Matthew Maury Elementary School. The second phase of The Identity Project — the selection of new names — ensures that students, staff, alumni, families and the community are all heard.
Most importantly, we want to keep the next generation and our students' voices at the heart of this process. To assist the community with suggested names for both schools, we invited all ACPS students to participate in an essay/poster campaign to submit names for community consideration. Following this process, the community is invited to choose one of the student selections or to submit a new nomination. The first community polls for T.C. Williams High School and Matthew Maury Elementary School will be open from Jan. 13 through Jan. 27 at 11:59 p.m.
We are thrilled to have 119 student entries representing 50 different name suggestions for T.C. Williams High School and 29 different name suggestions for Matthew Maury Elementary School.
Note: Please know that student entries that suggested keeping the same names of the two schools were not added to this document due to the fact that the Alexandria City School Board has already voted to change the names. At this point in time, only names different from the existing names are being considered. Additionally, name submissions that did not follow the posted criteria, did not add an essay or poster, or did not have a completed entry were not added to this document.
Names submitted by ACPS students to rename T.C. Williams High School
Places People Concepts
Alexandria City Public High John C. Albohm High School Anime High School School
Alexandria High School Howard L Baugh High School Diversity High School
King Street High School Herman Boone High School Eisenstadt High School
The City of Alexandria High Boone-Yoast High School One For Everyone High School (TC Alexandria HS) School
North Potomac High School G.W. Carver High School Red Raven High School
Nolan B. Dawkins High School Rose High School
George Floyd Memorial High Titan Community High School School (T.C.)
Ruth Bader Ginsberg High School Titan High School
Alexander Hamilton High School
Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton High School
Kamala Harris High School
Prince Harry High School
Josiah Henson High School
Hercules High School
Jarad Higgins High School
Edwin J. Houston High School
Blois Hundley High School
Henry Johnson High School Katherine Johnson High School
Petey Jones High School
John F. Kennedy High School
Martin Luther King High School
Vola Lawson High School
McCoy-Thomas High School
Meghan Markle High School
James Monroe High School
Zelia Ball Page High School
Rosa Parks High School
Markus Persson High School
Amelia Piper High School
George Lewis Seaton High School
Brian Sicknick High School
Harriet Tubman High School
Mary Edwards Walker High School
Booker T. Washington High School
George Washington High School
Malala Yousafzai High School
Names That Represent Places
Alexandria City High School (submitted by M. H.) Because all humans are fallible, eventually someone will be offended by their transgressions. (submitted by V. P.) Alexandria City High School Name Proposal Renaming TC Williams High School is important to providing an equal and equitable environment for all students. That is why it is vital that the new name of the school be inclusive, and make every student feel their school represents them in a positive manner. This is why I propose that TC Williams High School be renamed “Alexandria City High School”. The students attending this school have one major thing in common, their city. This city has fought to get the name of the school changed, and the students and youth of the city have worked tirelessly to fix what is broken. Recognizing the coming-together of a population to make positive change and to ensure the inclusion of everyone, is crucial to setting an example for the future, and showing that we are prepared to do what is right. This name allows everyone to see that they matter, they are an essential part of the city, and an important piece of a community that cares for each and every single member. Please consider the suggestion of “Alexandria City High School” for the renaming of such a meaningful establishment.
Alexandria City Public High School (submitted by A. B., O. K. and A. D.) I think that they should change the name to Alexandria City Public High School due to the fact that every person has done wrong also as it is the only public high school it would fit.
Alexandria High School
(submitted by F. K.) the school for a person would I think T.C. Willimas should (submitted by K. D.). inevitably exclude some be renamed Alexandria High The name is not group. However, School because it’s the only controversial, it's simple. naming it for the city we all high school in Alexandria, so share would leave it open it fits perfectly without any (submitted by M. H.) ended. With the schools confusion. Ours is a diverse school renaming we have an without any one identity. That opportunity to (submitted by G. W.) is why I feel as though remind students every day renaming that this is their high school to build on.
(submitted by Z. S.)
Why is nearly every school in Alexandria named after a historical figure? Haven't we learned that history has different perspectives, that no person is without fault, and you can't please everyone? Naming schools, streets, bridges, parks and stadiums after historical figures is not necessary to preserve history. Let's preserve the history of place by naming the only high school in our city "Alexandria High School". Let's give recognition to the city where we live, work and grow. Root the identity of the school in the area it represents. Call it what it is. History and prominent people can be learned through information placards, books, tours, landmarks, etc. Keep opinions out of the school name; keep the possibilities of future offenses out of the school name. Stop naming schools after people.
(submitted by O. D.) My name is Oliver. Because I am in kindergarten, I said it would be okay for my dad to help me submit a name recommendation. Dad told me that one of the best things about living in Alexandria is that I will get to go to high school here because there were students from almost 60 different countries and from families of different incomes. He explained that not all schools are like this and the opportunity to mix with such a variety of students would be an educational experience in and of itself. When we go to the grocery store, Dad shows me the t-shirts and sweatshirts for the high school that are on sale and how when we go to stores in places nearby that we do not see this. Dad was happy when they decided to keep one high school for the town because it shows the pride of Alexandria. However, because we have people from so many different places naming the school after a person would be bad. Some people will like the person and others won’t and that would be divisive. That’s why we think it would be best simply to call it Alexandria High School.
King Street High School (submitted by C. A.) T.C. Williams High School should be renamed King Street High School because it is not tied to any person or group, and it is geographical while also leaving room for another high school to be built and have a similar name.
The City of Alexandria High School (TC Alexandria High School) (Submitted by S. S.)
(submitted by E. B.) Alexandria City Public Schools has numerous schools named after famous and infamous people. What we don’t yet have is a school named after the city itself. Why not make the one building in which all the kids in ACPS go, the one? Choosing this name would allow us to keep our TC Titans because The City of Alexandria High School would be TCAHS. The name also wouldn’t spike much controversy because it is named after the city, and would also allow everyone to feel included since it isn’t named after someone of a particular race, ethnicity, and/or gender. I think that the school should be renamed The City of Alexandria High School because it is a representation of our city. It would be a very easy name to remember and something that could be catchy. One perk, as mentioned before, is that the name wouldn’t be controversial in any way(unless someone has a grudge against the name Alexandria) because it would be named after the city of Alexandria. In choosing the name The City of Alexandria we could still keep our TC since we would be ‘The City’.
(Submitted by J. L.) In choosing a new name for TC Williams High School, the focus should be on one that is all-inclusive, continues the legacy of the school, and embodies Titan pride. Current students and alumni alike talk about their Titan pride, and people from around the world know us from the movie Remember the Titans. In fact, saying “TC” and “TC Titans” is more commonly heard than the full name of TC Williams High School. Also, choosing the name of one particular person for a school is very hard as there will always be groups left unhappy by the choice. If it is the name of an important man, then women will be disappointed that a female isn’t being recognized. If the person is of a particular race, then other ethnic groups feel left out. As a result, the new name of the high school should simply be The City of Alexandria High School. One city, one school. It permits the school to keep an acronym similar to the current one – “TCA” instead of “TC” – and students can be the “TCA Titans” and retain their Titan pride. It is simple, straight-forward and, most importantly, all-inclusive and representative of our City.
North Potomac High School (submitted by F. A.)
For the renaming of T.C William in my opinion I feel as though it should be called North Potomac High School.
Considering the Potomac river has been of value since before America was even being thought of. It was always a way of survival and one of the Conoy Chiefdom substantial providers.In addition Conoy Chiefdom was made of other native groups such as Tauxenents and Nacotchtanks. Throughout The American Civil War it was used by the Union army for transportation to attack the Confederate army. Later on it has become a great tourist spot that I have even visited a couple times.Perhaps during your time in Alexandria you may also find yourself visiting the river. Some activities that you can partake in are riding one of the many boats that have been prepared.Not only can you relax on the dock you can also play in the park, while having a nice view.After all the Potomac river doesn’t discriminate.
Names That Represent People
John C. Albohm High School (submitted by S. W.) I think T.C. Williams High School should be renamed after John C. Albohm. Albohm became the superintendent of ACPS right after Thomas Chambliss (TC) Williams retired. Alexandria was purely segregated. It wasn’t until Albohm became superintendent that things started to make some evident change. Within five weeks of becoming superintendent, Albohm declared a plan to integrate the schools. The first thing he did was try to racially balance the education environment by transferring sixty-three students to different schools. The board tried to get him fired, but Albohm was implementing so many changes before the Civil Rights Act was in place that they couldn’t stop him. He did everything he could to make African Americans and children in poverty feel welcome, even though it risked him his job.
John C. Albohm’s actions are incredibly important and should be memorialized in Alexandria. He is the reason that students of black, white, and copper skin can learn together. I also find it fitting to change the name from a superintendent who fought for segregation to the superintendent who gave students some educational freedom. We’re undoing T.C. William’s mess by renaming our high school after the man who gave us hope.
Howard L Baugh High School (submitted by R. C.) When I first heard that TC Williams was named after someone that supported segregation my first thought was to rename the school and here we are. Why I thought that we should rename TC to Howard L Baugh High School is because he is black and we need black role models. If you take a look at all the names of the schools in ACPS you would see that they are all white men. We need diversity in names. Another reason is because he was one of the tuskegee airmen . He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in March 1942. He is a war hero. Though he died in August of 2008, it would surely make him happy to have a school named after him. I hope you will give this option a chance.
Herman Boone High School (submitted by O. H.)
(Submitted by S. B.) If you don’t know who Herman Boone is, he is the football coach that inspired the movie Remember The Titans. I believe that this would be a great name for the high school because he was a great and inspiring man and most people know who he is. I felt that with the name T.C. Williams not many people knew who he was but, with Herman Boone, many people love that movie and know who he is. Also, I believe that the movie Remember The Titans has made a “brand name” out of the high school so, naming the school after the man the movie was about would be a great idea.
(Submitted by A. R.)
Boone-Yoast High School (submitted by N. M.) The future will be caused by moving forward. Changing the name of T.C. Williams is a step. The world needs more steps. That is why I think we need a model who did. Herman Boone was not just a football coach he was a trailblazer. Boone led both white and black players and created peace. The players became friends. He showed that a person should be judged for who they are and nothing else. He was a role model for T.C Williams and the world. I think the connection between Bill Yoast and Boone is important. As two coaches of different color and yet they still work together. That should be shown. The world needs something to remember. The world needs something to support them as they take their next step. These High School students need something to grasp as they grow their future. The world should see a bridge. So I strongly believe in the new name being Boone-Yoast. “You pray for rain, you gotta deal with the mud too. That’s a part of it” - Herman boone.
George Floyd Memorial High School (submitted by S. O.) A lot of things happened in 2020, including the Black Lives Matter movement that started with the death of George Floyd. In honor of him, I suggest T.C. Williams should be renamed George Floyd Memorial to acknowledge and remember him and how his death affected society.
Ruth Bader Ginsberg High School (Submitted by K.P.) Ruth Bader Ginsberg, former supreme court justice, is the perfect person for uniting our community and embodying modern ACPS values with her name on the front of our school. R.B.G. was, and still is, an important role model to the younger community. She is the definition of inclusion, diversity, and activism. She once said “the stain of generations of racial oppression is still visible in our society, and the determination to hasten its removal remains vital”, deciding to change the names of T.C. and Maury, ending the legacy of racism and confederacy in ACPS is exactly the type of action Ginsberg worked in support of. R.B.G also frequently spoke out about the importance of women in power, saying “women belong in all places where decisions are being made...it shouldn’t be that women are the exception.” It would send a message of equality and inclusion to rename T.C. after a strong woman so outspoken about racial and gender equality, and one who has done so much to inspire the younger generation. Speaking as a student of T.C., I would be proud to rename myself a student of R.B.G high school.
(submitted by C. H.)
G.W. Carver High School (submitted by A. E.)
Alexander Hamilton High School (submitted by G. J.)
Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton (submitted by R. J.) Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton was an abolitionist who spent her life trying to get other people (Alexander Hamilton, soldiers, George Washington) fame and appreciation. She was selfless. She used her position of power to speak out against slavery. She never held grudges- even when her husband cheated on her, she forgave him. She never tried to make a name for herself. She was born into a rich family who made their riches off of slaves, but she didn’t let her past get in the way of her kindness, and spoke out against slavery anyway. Elizabeth had a kind heart, and she never changed that. There was a point in her life when her sister died, her son died, and her mother died in a short period of time, but she kept working. She was so intent on helping others get their names out there and not her own that she was just known as Hamilton’s wife. She put her feelings behind her and always fought for what she thought was right. She interviewed soldiers who fought in the war and raised money for the Washington Monument. Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton should be the new name of T.C.Williams.
(submitted by N. R.) The name I am choosing to rename for T. C. williams is Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton because Elizabeth Hamilton was a very good role model; she was born in 1757 she barely had time for herself while helping everybody she knew and Elizabeth was not known for anything only being Alexander Hamilton’s wife , But she was way more than that . She was an abolitionist who fought for the rights of slavery, and helped fund the washington monument , she interviewed every soilder her husband fought with. And most of all she established the first private orphanage in new york city! She lived until she was 97 years old. And still Elizabeth barely gets enough recognition. If we rename T. C. Williams to Elizabeth Hamilton High School that will just be enough recognition for her now.
Prince Harry High School (submitted by P. R.)
Kamala Harris High School (submitted by R. M.) On November 7th, Kamala Harris made history by becoming the first female, African-American, South Asian, Vice President-Elect. The barrier-breaking news could not come at a better time, as it was announced amidst the Black Lives Matter Movement, and projected the many changes of the time. Not only did it resemble the new steps we were taking as a nation, but it also reflected the diversity the political world desperately needed, amplifying the voices of an often ignored demographic. Kamala Harris was a breath of fresh air amongst the rigid, close-mindedness of the current political situation, and her progressive views and certain voice steadied the many anxieties of American citizens. I believe that Kamala Harris High School would be a perfect name for T.C. Williams because it aligns with the progressive direction of our new nation, and perfectly resembles our desired goal for diversity. Moreover, it also serves as a timestamp for our current accomplishments as a country and acts as a reminder for our new strides for a brighter, more diverse nation.
Not only did Kamala Harris become the first African-American vice president, but she also became the first woman to serve California’s Attorney General, practicing under the law and striving for justice as a lawyer, inspired by her mother and the Civil Rights Movement. Kamala Harris protected the rights of many people, acting as a solid podium of strength and security for the country and as a lawyer. Kamala Harris has marked history books with her bold strides and fearless nature, inspiring many around the world. Not only did she make history by becoming the first female vice president, but she also worked for the justice of many people, and protected the rights of countless citizens. She steadied the waning uncertainty of the political world and painted the politics with her own bright colors. This is why I think Kamala Harris High School is an undeniable name for T.C. Williams, as she has acted as a figure for justice and diversity for many years.
Nolan B. Dawkins High School (submitted by A. J.) In the light of recent events, Alexandria’s high school deserves a name that not only honors what we as a community stand for but our achievements. Nolan B. Dawkins is Alexandria’s first American Circuit Judge, and not only that, was one of the first African American students to integrate George Washington High School. He has served and continues to serve our community, and is an example to T.C. students of a leader of our city. If T.C.W is renamed Nolan B. Dawkins High School, we can look back in remembrance of a hero from Alexandria and look forward to what is to come with honor and pride.
Josiah Henson High School (submitted by A. W. C.) I think the name should be Josiah Henson or Henson for short because Josiah shows that you should never give up, you fight for what you want and always keep going like when you want to get to college you work hard to get good grades and be accepted. Josiah was a slave born as a slave but escaped because he was strong; he was separated from his mother when he was young and that is only part of his story. He worked hard just to get out of slavery and when he did when he escaped he started a plantation. He had 4 children when enslaved and then had 8 more after he made the plantation. What the reason is for that name is to show that you should and can be courageous, strong, independent, patient, and never give up. That is the reason why I believe the new name for T.C. Williams should be Josiah Henson. I hope you really liked my reasoning of why Josiah Henson should be the name. Bye
Hercules High School (submitted by K. S.) I believe that “T.C Williams High School” should be called “Hercules High” because when thinking about it the football team’s name is “Titan” and Hercules fits the word Titan. Also I don’t really know why but “Hercules High” fits the building structure, tall, big, and modern. Even as a baby, Hercules showed great strength and courage. And so this school, if named “Hercules High”, could be a great way to show that your students are powerful, courageous and nothing could get in their way.
Jarad Higgins High School (submitted by T. S.)
Edwin J. Houston High School (submitted by H. B.) I believe that Edwin J. Houston should be the new name for T.C. Williams High school. I believe this because he was an accomplished engineer that was born here in Alexandria VA. Houston designed an arc light generator and his experimentation eventually led to a widely successful light. He founded Thomas-Houston Electric Company, a precursor of the General Electric Company. He also wrote a book series called “The Wonder Books of Science” and was chief electrician of Philadelphia's International Electrical Exhibition.
The item that Houston was most famous for helping with was the arc light. His experimentation led to its invention by Humphry Davy. The arc light (now known as the gas discharge lamp) makes light through metal electrodes in a circular glass bulb. Common fluorescent lights are a form of the arc light, a low-pressure mercury one. The arc light is also used in movie projectors and other bright light similar to that. Houston’s arc light was in competition with Charles F. Brush’s arc light, but in 1890 Thomas-Jefferson Electric company was the most successful electrical company in the US. Overall, I believe that Edwin J. Houston would be a great candidate for the renaming of TC Williams.
Blois Hundley High School (submitted by J. H.) The United States has a history of erasing Black Americans history. TC Williams, one of the superintendents of ACPS, too has contributed to the mistreatment and erasure of African Americans. When Blois Hundley, a mother and a cafeteria worker at an ACPS school, raised her hand at a PTA meeting to try to get her children a better education at a whites-only school, she likely did not expect the attention she received. Williams fired her because he felt like her request was a slap in the face, and claimed the reasoning had nothing to do with her race. Williams received support from local government officials in his decision. Hundley joined a federal Civil Rights lawsuit, and with an impending Civil Rights investigation Williams offered Hundley her job back. Which she ended up declining. A mother’s request for access to an equal education for her children became an important part of the Civil Rights history of Alexandria. Blois Hundley deserves to have her story shared and this is why I am submitting her name as what TC Williams High School should be renamed as.
(submitted by L. F.) As we listen to the suggestions of the community combined with the history of school names, there is a pattern that tends to stick out, naming our schools after men, predominantly white men. The lack of representation of historical figures, other than those of white men being the namesakes of our schools, is incredibly dated and now is the time to start changing. This is why I suggest the name of Blois Hundley, a former ACPS employee and a civil rights activist. Hundley was a dedicated, hard working woman of color who fought to desegregate our schools and because of these civil rights that she fought for, TC Williams fired her from working at our school. Blois Hundley’s name is most likely one that most people in our community haven’t heard of, but now is the time we give her the recognition she deserves. Our current demographic of students and staff is one that is incredibly diverse which gives us all the more reason to name it after a person who fought to allow us to have a school population that includes people from every and all walks of life.
Henry Johnson High School (submitted by C. B.) Baseball is the best sport there is no other sport like it. The way you feel when you go up to bat or get on the field. I wish I could be on a baseball field for the rest of my life!
Katherine Johnson High School (submitted by T.M.)
Petey Jones High School (submitted by R. M.) Petey Jones was a trailblazer amon gst the many students of T.C. Williams high school, playing fullback on the momentous football team. Not only was he a talented athlete, but a humanitarian, participating in many acts of community service. And after his playing days were behind him, he served as a T.C. Williams security guard, being a kind and constant figure in many students’ lives.
He always took the opportunity to be a selfless, considerate individual, helping any kid in need by providing them cleats or food if they were hungry. But, he did so much more than illuminate the lives of students, he also helped mend racial tensions that inspired the movie, Remember the Titans, and was portrayed by Donald Faison. He also used this influence to spread the message of unity and kindness. Not only would the name Petey Jones Highschool be a tangible tie to the impact he had on students’ lives, but it would also honor the constant and leavening presence he had within the building. He had a very significant relationship with the students and teachers and reflected the mending of the racial divide. Living proof that friendship could be found amongst the differences.
T.C. Williams is synonymous with Remember the Titans, but by naming the school Petey Jones High School, it maintains the association with the movie. And it also highlights the racial triumphs and progressive accomplishments of the team. Not only will this upkeep the relationship with the movie, but it will also honor the many impacts he had on the students, and reflected the bold acceptance of the football team. I believe that Petey Jones High School would be a perfect name for T.C. Williams because it reflects the importance of overcoming racial adversity and committing to the act of selflessness. His name would be a reminder of the essence of comradery and would honor the thirty years of service toward T.C. Williams High school. Reflecting the strides the team once took to mend the holes of racial tension and pushing past established prejudice.
John F. Kennedy High School (submitted by B. T.) T.C. Williams was renamed because T.C Williams was racist and tried to segregate the school. Shouldn’t we try to rename the school for someone who stuck up for civil rights? John F. Kennedy was one of these people. When JFK stepped into office, African Americans across the south were denied the right to vote and across the U.S., the right to a fair trial, and were discriminated against in public facilities. But, 70% of the African Americans who were able to vote, voted for Kennedy. When Kennedy took office, he appointed many African Americans to high levels, and spoke in favor of school desegregation. He created the President's Committee on Equal Employment Opportunity. It helped people have nonsegregated job opportunities. His vice president, Lyndon B. Johnson was head of the President's Committee on Equal Employment Opportunity. When 2 black students tried to go to an all white school, and the governor of the state refused to protect the students, John F. Kennedy stepped up. He sent the National Guard in to help the students. In conclusion, JFK protected civil rights, and helped America.
Martin Luther King High School (submitted by E. E.)
John R. Lewis High School (submitted by M. B.)
(Submitted by V. C.) I believe that TC Williams High School should be renamed after someone important, someone who made a difference in this world. My mind immediately went to John Lewis. I believe that we should rename T.C Williams John Lewis high school because John Lewis was a civil rights activist and believed in equality. He was also the leader of an organization called Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). He also marched with Martin Luther King Jr. from Selma to Montgomery. Later, John Lewis became a United States representative for Georgia. John Lewis was a very accomplished man. In conclusion, I believe that John Lewis is the perfect new name for T.C Williams high school.
Vola Lawson High School (submitted by P. C. T.) Vola Lawson was an incredible woman; she was our first female city manager for 15 years from 1985 to 2000. She helped animals, lower housing, and many more causes. She lived in Park Fairfax with her husband David. The plan was to live in suburban Maryland, later tenant issues occurred which influenced her to start community activism. Vola Lawson later became the first female city manager. She first helped build an animal shelter now called Vola Lawson Animal shelter. Vola and her husband helped start the tenant's association at Parkfairfax. Her husband was city council for 3 years as the first African American city councilman since Reconstruction. Vola Lawson founded the city's Walk to Fight Breast Cancer in 1994 while she was still undergoing her own treatment. She also joined the Urban League, participating in civil rights demonstrations and becoming an advocate for Alexandria’s lower-income communities.
Vola Lawson did many great things for this city and I believe that she should get more recognition for what she did she served this city from a very young age fought for the citizens of Alexandria she worked hard to preserve affordable housing and to help City residents in need and that’s why I believe that she should be the new name of T.C. Williams to Vola Lawson High School. McCoy-Thomas High School (submitted by T. D.) My name is Theodore. Because I am in second grade I said it would be okay for my dad to help me submit a name recommendation. Renaming T.C. Williams High School presents an opportunity to atone for injustices that have been an unfortunate part of Alexandria’s history. These injustices include the 1897 lynching of Joseph McCoy and the 1899 lynching of Benjamin Thomas. Typically, when a school is named after a person it is a person of accomplishment. We really do not know much about Mr. McCoy or Mr. Thomas, but we do know that we are taught that in the United States people are presumed to be innocent until proven, beyond a reasonable doubt, to be guilty by a jury of their peers. We also know that when a school is named for a person it invites people to investigate the history of that person. It is for this reason that I think that choosing the name McCoy-Thomas High School would serve to keep the memory of this unfortunate chapter more alive than would be the case if the names of these two gentlemen were only recorded on more obscure monuments.
Meghan Markle High School (submitted by A. R. M.)
James Monroe High School (submitted by M. L.)
Zelia Ball Page High School (submitted by S. B.)
Rosa Parks High School (submitted by K. C.) I believe ACPS should rename T.C Williams HS to Rosa Parks HS. Rosa Parks was an important person because she was an African-American activist who fought for civil rights. She signifies kindness and respect for all, which can inspire all people and is what we want to think about when we think of ACPS.
One reason the students, staff and community would agree with my choice is because Rosa Parks wanted everyone to be treated the same and to share no matter their race. Another reason is due to the fact that she changed the world and because of her bravery. If they rename the school to Rosa Parks HS, the students would know that when they enter the school no one is different and that they will be treated with respect. In conclusion, I think Rosa Parks would be a wise choice. I want ACPS to be remembered for acknowledging her and how she fought for inclusion and equality. Therefore, Rosa Parks would honor the transition in these unprecedented times and shine a light on the future of ACPS.
(submitted by S. A.) I believe ACPS should rename T.C. Williams High School to Rosa Parks High School. She is an important person because she fought for equal rights and people to get equal treatment. She went to jail for not moving out of the seat when she was on the bus. Rosa Parks fought for rights which is what we want people to think about when they think of ACPS.
Rosa Parks is significant because she made sure no matter what she was going to make sure everyone got fair treatment. Students, staff and the community should agree with my choice that Rosa Parks is a very important person. She went to jail because of her beliefs and that did not stop her from her goal to fight for freedom. I think she is a good person to choose because she worked to make things fair. She changed things for the better. Rosa Parks is a big part of history, that’s why I think she’s the best choice for a new ACPS school.
Markus Persson (submitted by B. O.)
Amelia Piper High School (submitted by E. B.) Amelia Piper was born in Alexandria, Virginia as an enslaved woman. She was married to William J. Piper whom she had four kids with. Between 1826 and 1830 Amelia and her family left Virginia for New Bedford, Massachusetts in hopes of a better life. While living in New Bedford Amelia and her husband worked hard on helping free other enslaved people and fugitives like them. They did this by providing shelter to them and assisting them in their new life. One of the organizations she was with was the New Bedford Female Union Society. Not only was she a participant in the society she was a manager. She also helped organize one of the first anti-slave fairs.
I think that Amelia Piper deserves to have the school named after her even though much of her work was done in Massachusetts. I think that she represented what we Alexandrians believe (most of us at least). She helped guide and shepherd those who were in the same situation as her. Her hard work allowed many people to start over with a new life and get back onto their feet. Amelia Piper was a hardworking, intelligent woman who always put others first. I think that we can learn a lot from Amelia Piper and her work.
George Lewis Seaton High School th (Submitted by Ms. Landis’s 4 Grade Writing Classes)
th We are students in Ms. Landis’s 4 grade writing class at Barrett Elementary School. We have been reading about changing the name of T.C. Williams and Maury this week, and we have also been learning how to write persuasive essays. We decided as a class to write a letter to the School Board to encourage you to change the name of one of the schools to reflect a very important Alexandrian named George Lewis Seaton.
Mr. Seaton was born in the early 1800’s to parents who had been former slaves at Mount Vernon, but had gotten their freedom. He taught himself how to read and write, and trained as a carpenter.
We think that George Lewis Seaton should be the new name of T.C. Williams because he built two schools in 1866 to educate newly-freed African Americans, he sat on the jury that convicted Jefferson Davis (the former President of the Confederacy) guilty, and he created the YMCA in Alexandria and was chosen as a delegate to the Virginia government.
First of all, Mr. Seaton worked toward helping African Americans get an education throughout his whole life. He began helping by building two schools in 1866. This was important because it was right after the Civil War, when most African American men and women could not get an education. He knew it was important for everyone to learn, not just white people. He was involved in education his entire life and worked hard to help everyone achieve an education. He was a trustee of the First Free School of Alexandria, and also the President of the Colored Public School Building Association until his death in 1881.
Secondly, Mr. Seaton was on the jury that convicted Jefferson Davis, who was the President of the Confederacy, as well as several other Confederate soldiers. This is important because it shows that Mr. Seaton was a smart and fair man, since he was chosen to be on such an important jury. It also shows that Mr. Seaton was very brave to go into a courtroom and face a man who stood for such opposite beliefs as him.
Lastly, Mr. Seaton was a huge member of the community. He was the founding President of the branch of the Young Men’s Christian Association for African Americans in 1873, and a member and deacon of Alfred Street Baptist Church. This is important because it shows he was dedicated to his community, he was determined to do what was right even if people doubted him. And he wanted everyone to be treated fairly.
As you can see, we believe Mr. George Lewis Seaton should be chosen. He did amazing things for our community and the people who live in Alexandria.
Sincerely,
th Ms. Landis’s 4 Grade Writing Classes Charles Barrett Elementary School
Brian Sicknick High School (submitted by P. R.) Officer Brian Sicknick, a Virginian, defended one of our Nation's most sacred buildings - the US Capitol in Washington D.C. - in the last moments of his life. He sacrificed his life to preserve the American values of democracy and patriotism. Fighting against what could be considered the most outrageous attack against our democratic institutions carried out by domestic terrorists who stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021, when Congress, and the Vice President of the United States, were carrying out their important constitutional duty of counting the electoral college votes which are the heart of our Republic and the root of American democracy. The attacks against the Capitol go against everything we stand for as a Nation. Officer Brian Sicknick made the ultimate sacrifice, and he should be honored and remembered.
Harriet Tubman High School (submitted by L. C.)
(submitted by B. M.)
Mary Edwards Walker High School (submitted by A. D.) Mary Edwards Walker is an endlessly fascinating American figure. Throughout her life, she fought tirelessly in pursuit of the American dream in all its permutations, including gender equality and civil rights. She was a proponent of feminism and freedom of gender expression. She earned her medical degree at the age of 23 and enlisted as a surgeon in the U.S. Army. Her time as an army surgeon and prisoner of war won her a Medal of Honor, the only one ever awarded to a woman to this day. She did all of this in the 1800s.
Perhaps more shocking is the fact that Walker is still unknown to many Americans, without any public organizations to bear her name. She fought for equality and freedom in every aspect of her life, from how she dressed to how she took her wedding vows, refusing to include the word “obey”. Mary Edwards Walker is the best option for the renaming of Alexandria’s high school because she represents the pinnacle of what Americans can be--hardworking, gallant, and unafraid to go against the norm for the betterment of society.
Booker T. Washington High School (submitted by A. C.) Renaming Alexandria’s High School: Alexandria’s High School is in need of a new name, and since the High School is a place of learning we should name it after Booker T. Washington who was a pioneer of helping people get an equal education. Booker Taliaferro was born into slavery on plantation in Southwestern Virginia. When Booker Taliaferro was nine when the Emancipation Proclamation freed him and his family. His mother took him and his siblings to free West Virginia to join her husband and there Booker took his stepfather’s last name as his own. For several years Booker T. Washington worked in salt and coal mines to earn money. Booker traveled east to Hampton where he was an excellent student and earned high grades. General Samuel Chapman was impressed by Booker and recommended him as a principal for an African American school in Tuskegee, Alabama. Booker T. Washington became principal when he was twenty-five and stayed there until his death. By working as the principal of the Tuskegee Institute he presided over many students and allowed them to have a proper education. This is why we should change the name of T.C. to Booker T. Washington.
George Washington High School (submitted by L. H.)
Malala Yousafzai High School (submitted by R. L. C.)
Names That Represent Concepts Anime High School (submitted by J. M.)
Diversity High School (submitted by K. P.) I think TC Williams should be renamed to Diversity High School. Merriam-Webster defines diversity as the condition of having or being composed of differing elements. TC Williams is so different compared to schools viewed in movies or tv shows or anything in the entertainment industry. We have different people of all different races and backgrounds. We think that the name of the school should represent the diversity of the school. What better word than diversity to represent our school? Sure a historical figure would suit it better, but there are too many mistakes and scandals that could uncover with time. Flip the years of misrepresentation to a dramatic turn of events with such a powerful word: diversity.
Eisenstadt High School (submitted by A. E.) Many people have had the name Eisenstadt over the years but I feel that it always represents the same idea. Eisenstadt means iron city in German and I feel that this holds true for T.C. Williams. This is a community built around standing up for your beliefs and being tough as steel, just like iron. Not to mention the name Eisenstadt is very popular throughout history. It is used as the name of the city of Eisenstadt, in Austria and for the name of famous inventors and photographers such as Benjamin Eisenstadt and Alfred Eisenstadt. Even in its modern spelling of Eissenstat the name has been used for many famous people such as Harry Eissenstat, a baseball player who played for Dodgers, Tigers, and Indians.
One For Everyone High School (submitted by Z. R.)
Red Raven High School (submitted by N. N.)
Rose High School (submitted by M. N.)
Titan Community High School (T.C.) (submitted by C. M.) In Alexandria, we have one public High School with a diverse, unique and rich history. The person that T.C. Williams High School was named for having an unfortunate history. While we wish to disassociate from this person, we need to consider continuing our rich traditions. Long have we chanted “Let’s Go TC” at our games. We, students boast, “I go to TC”. Graduates are proud to say they went to TC. TC, these two letters, are a part of our school’s identity. It goes deeper and beyond a person. These letters signify a community. I propose Titan Community High School. Titan High School (submitted by U. S.)
A new name that I suggest for T.C. Williams High School is Titans in my opinion is a very great name for the school and Titans is a american football team so it almost matches the old name of the school and it would look very awesome.
(Submitted by A.T.)
(submitted by A. R.)