After years of debate, the Duval County (Fla.) School Board has voted 7-0 to change the name of Nathan B. Forrest High School, casting aside the name that many associate with slavery, Civil War crimes and racism. The Florida Times-Union says the name will be changed as of July 1, 2014; a new name has not been chosen. The community has been divided over the name change for many years. In 2008, the board rejected an effort to find a new name for the high school. Nathan Forrest was a Confederate General who later served as a grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. More than 60 percent of the students at the high school are black. The district estimates that it will cost $400,000 to change signs, uniforms and other items at the school.
About the Author
Mike Kennedy Blogger
Writer
Mike Kennedy has written for AS&U since 1999.
Sign up for American School & University Newsletters