Davis Magnet IB Elementary School in the Jackson Public School District will soon have a new name. At Tuesday night’s Board of Trustees meeting, PTA President, Janelle Hannah Jefferson stated that after many conversations and a vote, they have decided to rename the school ‘Barack Obama Magnet IB Elementary.’
Jefferson said that in their search they hoped to find a name for their school honoring someone who “fully represents ideals and public stances consistent with what we want our children to believe about themselves.”
After a request for suggestions was sent out to parents, students and staff in September, eight names were included on a ballot to be voted on in a two-week process. The vote was tallied, and the decision was made to change the name to honor the former President.
“Our goal is always to positively impact and reflect our dynamic scholars and our dynamite scholars, teachers and community partners,” Jefferson said.
Jefferson went on to say why she felt Jefferson Davis, the school’s current namesake, should be removed.
Following the announcement, Board President Camille Simms said she “wholeheartedly” agreed with the name change.
The official name change will take place before the 2018-19 school year.
