Goodbye Stonewall Jackson, hello Unity Braxton and Unity Reed.
During its June 29 meeting, the Prince William County School Board voted to rename Stonewall Jackson Senior High School to Unity Reed High School and Stonewall Jackson Middle School to Unity Braxton Middle School. These names were chosen out of over 775 submissions from community residents.
Special preference was given to the names of individuals ‘who have made significant contributions to the field of education, especially within Prince William County,’ according to a presentation from the schools’ naming committees. The naming committee for the former Stonewall Jackson Senior High School consisted of school board Chairman Babur Lateef, Brentsville District Member Adele Jackson, Gainesville District Member Jennifer T. Wall, and Coles District Member Lisa Zargarpur, while the committee for the former Stonewall Middle School consisted of Chairman Lateef,Ā Brentsville District Member Jackson, and Gainesville District Member Wall.
“Arthur Reed was a favorite among the community for the renaming of the school and the school board seeks to recognize the voices and opinions of current and former students of the high school. Arthur Reed reflects a lifelong legacy and dedication to Prince William County, representing leadership, respect, pride, and perseverance,” said Brentesville District member Adele Jackson.
“Unity Braxton has a great sound to it. I think its inspirational and uplifting,” said Prince William County Schools Superintendant Steve Walts.
The former Stonewall Jackson High School was renamed after Arthur Reed, a security assistant at Stonewall Jackson High School for a number of years, who was nicknamed the āgodfatherā of the school. The former Stonewall Jackson Middle School, on the other hand, was renamed after Celestine and Carol Braxton, an African-American teacher who taught in Virginia during racial segregation and a master gunnery sergeant in the Marine Corps respectively.
The names Reed and Braxton are preceded by unity, another popular suggestion for the new names of the schools, as it ‘reminds the students to uplift, inspire, and support each other in their commitment to excellence,’ according to Gainsville District Member Wall.
Aside from naming the schools, the school board also named the auditorium of what is now Unity Braxton Middle School after the school’s newly retired principal, John G. Miller.
“John Miller has served as a Principal at Stonewall Middle School for the last 18 years. Mr.Miller has provided an outstanding example of selfless dedication and service,” said Gainsville District Member Wall.
The renaming of the schools comes in light of the recent deaths of African-American during encounters with police that sparked nationwide protests. Prince William County Schools Superintendant, Steven L. Walts, called for the renaming of the schools in his “Action Plan to Combat Racism.”
āWe can no longer represent the Confederacy in our schools. To this end, the renaming of Stonewall Jackson High School and Stonewall Middle School should begin immediately, pursuant to the policy of the School Board. It is an insult and an affront to our students, especially in schools where the majority of the students are students of color,ā Waltsā plan states.
While the naming process is over, school board members assured their work was far from done.
“Don’t think these name changes are just check a box and done. We’re working,” said Coles District Member Zargapur.
“Many citizens commented and said ‘Don’t just change the rename the school. We as a board have committed to improving student performance,” said Chariman Babur Lateef.
The now Unity Reed High School has the third-lowest graduation rate in the county and many infrastructure problems, according to student representative to the school board Ben Kim.
“What would truly benefit our students would be improvements to our school such as new bathrooms, natural lighting, and locker rooms,” tweeted student representative Kim.
Recent Stories
We all want to reside in a community that is fun, safe, and, at it’s core – clean. However, it’s easier said than done. Maintaining an inviting, enjoyable space has it’s challenges, from monetary expenses to valuable time and effort.
The Pence Group is getting closer to breaking ground on its long-awaited 45-acre mixed-use development on Garrisonville Road in North Stafford.
I-66 Express donates $10K to NVFS Hunger Center, aiding 400+ families this holiday season.
Detectives concluded an investigation into a shooting incident from August 2023, where shots were fired into an unoccupied vehicle and a man was targeted but not injured. Two suspects face charges related to reckless firearm handling and conspiracy.
Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.
What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DCās only official celebration?
This is the Wine Event Of The Year!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by current events, family responsibilities, or the demands of work? If stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion are weighing you down, youāre not aloneāand you donāt have to face it alone. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that lifeās challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, and weāre here to help.
We offer in person and virtual appointments. Our in person office is located in Kingstowne Virginia.
Our team offers compassionate support and practical tools tailored to help you navigate lifeās complexities with greater ease and confidence. Whether youāre struggling with personal issues, managing family stress, or dealing with professional pressures, we are committed to helping you find peace and clarity.
Sing a Song of Christmas!!!
Join the New Dominion Choraliers for an impressive and exciting concert celebrating the Brightest and Best of the season. Along with the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, the chorus opens the program opens with Vivaldi’s Gloria, a joyful hymn of praise
