A quote in the “Name Game Verdict: Concord Middle School” really stood out to me. A School Committee chair, who should be commended for their volunteerism and service, said: “elevating a single individual over any other just doesn’t seem right.” This comment, possibly taken out of context, did make me think of The Ripley Administrative Building, Alcott Elementary, Willard Elementary, Thoreau Elementary, Sanborn Middle School, Peabody Middle School, Peter Buckley Terrace, The Harvey Wheeler Community Center, The Emerson Umbrella, Emerson Hospital, The Hunt Gymnasium, The Beede Swim Center and the Loring Fowler Memorial Library. I agree with Rebecca Lemaitre’s opinion noted in the February 16 paper that not naming the new middle school after Concord native, activist and educator Ellen Garrison is a “shameful missed opportunity.
‘Concord Middle School’ fine — but not as good as ‘Ellen Garrison’
April 25, 2024
As a lifelong educator and parent of two Concord students I wanted to take a moment to comment on the current discussion surrounding the new middle school. A large portion of the commentary appears to follow the logic that, since the School Committee had a tie vote on whether to name the middle school after Concordian civil rights activist Ellen Garrison and then almost immediately voted 3-2 to name it something different, the community should not voice our disagreement.
White Concordians should back ‘Ellen Garrison’ school naming
April 25, 2024
I am writing as a Concord resident, mother of three school-aged children (one in middle school), and a career teacher.
As a white adult who has the privilege of working with young people, I feel it is imperative upon me to do my own work around issues involving diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Let Ellen Garrison’s legacy chart path to future
April 25, 2024
The past we honor often shapes the future we desire, and so it is with the proposal to name the new middle school in honor of Concord native and civil rights activist Ellen Garrison.
