Virginia School Board Votes to Remove These Founding Fathers' Names from Buildings

The Falls Church School Board (FCSB) voted unanimously on Tuesday to rename Thomas Jefferson Elementary School and George Mason High School because of the namesakes owning slaves when they were alive.

The vote was the end result of a six-month-long process that included public hearings, hundreds of submitted written public comments, and a survey of the community, the FCSB said.

"The Board took seriously the viewpoints and concerns raised by many students, parents, staff, and community members," said School Board Chair Greg Anderson. "We thank everyone who shared their perspectives with us and will be mindful of your comments as we now begin selecting names that reflect the diversity of opinions in our community. Our schools must be places where all students, staff, and community members feel safe, supported, and inspired."

During the meeting, board member Philip Reitinger said the best way to honor Thomas Jefferson's legacy of "all men are created equal" is to remove his name from their elementary school.