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York County School Division Seeks Public Input on School Renaming

Community members engage in a discussion about the renaming of Magruder Elementary School.

News Summary

The York County School Division Board is gathering public feedback on the potential renaming of Magruder Elementary School amidst concerns regarding its association with Confederate General John B. Magruder. As discussions intensify, the community expresses differing views about the historical significance of the school’s name. The board aims to present options for surveying residents at the May 19 meeting.

YORK COUNTY – The York County School Division Board is actively seeking additional public input regarding the potential renaming of Magruder Elementary School, following community concerns over its ties to Confederate General John B. Magruder. The discussions about the school’s name have intensified since last fall, when residents began to voice objections to honoring a figure associated with the Confederacy.

Despite the outcry, some community members argue that the school does not directly honor Magruder, as his first name is not included in the school’s title. Others contend that the name originates from a community founded by free African Americans after the Civil War, although historical research suggests that the name ultimately traces back to Magruder.

The historical context shows that the community, where Magruder Elementary is located, was near Camp Peary. During the Civil War, Magruder was responsible for renaming an earthen redoubt to Fort Magruder as part of the Peninsula Campaign. This name played a role in establishing the area’s historical significance. Additionally, a federal school known as Fort Magruder School existed on this site before York County established Magruder School in 1920, which eventually closed in 1942. The current building for Magruder Elementary was constructed in 1951.

In 2019, the nearby city of Hampton symbolized a changing sentiment by renaming Magruder Boulevard to Neil Armstrong Parkway, reflecting a broader trend of reconsidering how historical figures are honored in public spaces. Board member Lynda Fairman has raised concerns that renaming one school may have implications for the names of other schools that reference geographical areas linked to historical individuals.

Chair Kimberly S. Goodwin emphasized the necessity of gathering community feedback prior to arriving at a final decision regarding the renaming. To this end, options for surveying residents about the proposed name change are anticipated to be presented at the upcoming May 19 school board meeting, with further discussions scheduled for June 2.

Previously, several speakers at board meetings have underscored the importance of renaming the school, urging the board to select a name that resonates with the values of the students and the broader community. The board recognizes the significant role that historical names have in shaping community identity.

Superintendent Victor Shandor has indicated that ongoing research, involving academic professionals and resources from William & Mary, is being conducted to provide comprehensive insights into the implications of the proposed renaming. This research aims to equip the school board with the information necessary to make an informed decision regarding the future of the school’s name.

Furthermore, a board work session to discuss the renaming is scheduled for May 12 at 6 p.m. at York Hall. While public comments will not be taken during this session, community members are warmly encouraged to attend. This session will contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the school’s name, in the context of community values and historical understanding.

In a related development, Magruder Elementary School was placed on a temporary modified lockdown due to a law enforcement investigation in the area. Precautionary measures were taken, but the lockdown was lifted later, with authorities reporting no ongoing danger to students and staff.