Medford Eyes Changing Columbus School Name

MEDFORD, MA — A Medford elementary school named after Christopher Columbus may be rebranded as local officials work to make the city a more accepting community. The School Committee on Monday will consider a resolution to rename the school by July 1, 2021.

The resolution, introduced by School Committee members Paul Ruseau, Melanie McLaughlin and Mea Mustone, would create an advisory committee to recommend a new name by Feb. 1. Also under consideration Monday is the development of an anti-racism curriculum for the middle and high schools that would include "the history of systemic, institutional and interpersonal racism and white supremacy in the United States."

Officials have vowed to "do better for you, and with you" as nationwide conversations around race have revealed issues at a local level. Earlier this month, Medford was trending on Twitter as people posted about their experiences with racism in the city.

Last week, the City Council declared systemic racism a public health emergency and voted to hold public forum with the mayor's office, the Board of Health, the police chief, the diversity director, the superintendent of schools and representatives of communities of color.