Jefferson Middle School Renaming Process

Proposal Criteria

Per School Board Policy (6700), the public has a minimum 30-day window to submit proposals that meet the following criteria. 

1. What individuals/groups are proposing the name? What is the proposed name?
2. Madison Metropolitan School District schools may be named after a prominent national or local figure who is deceased, a locally significant geographical site, a place of local significance, or an idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue. Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
3. If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
4. If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
5. If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
6. If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept? 

The window for submitting proposals closed on April 8, 2022.
 

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Steve Irwin was prominent because he gave people passion for wildlife and cared for all living beings. He was so kind and he was an inspiration to people across the globe. His legacy still goes on today, one of kindness and love, passion and purpose. One reason we know that he was a prominent figure was because his death shook the earth. It takes quite a being to do that.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Quite a few of the students in the MMSD area find Steve Irwin as a role model, like myself, and would be elated if he was chosen. There are many other candidates that are very good but Steve Irwin made such a big impact that the whole world knows his name and he was one of the most loving and daring people ever to live. Yes there are some amazing civil rights figures that were amazing but I am asking that you will consider this name.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Very famous author, poet, civil rights activist

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
She touched the lives of many people. She is very well known. Maya Angelou had a unique and wise voice that has continued to incite change after her death. She is a positive role model. A woman of minority with many academic accomplishments.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Charles Darwin conceived the theory of evolution, the most significant scientific idea ever proposed.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
All Madison school students learn about the important contributions of Charles Darwin to our understanding of all life on earth.  He is a scientist, and scientists are undervalued and underrepresented in our school system.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased; Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Mr. Gillespie was born enslaved and became a civil rights pioneer in the state of Wisconsin when he sued the state for the right to vote, via Gillespie v. Palmer 1866 which ultimately granted the rights for Blacks to vote here in the state.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
The school district has invested in Black excellence and yet the stories of many local, prominent Black leaders through history remain unknown.  The school is named currently for a former slave trafficker (Thomas Jefferson), so it seems even more fitting that a formerly enslaved person, who did such a vital task in trying to ensure the voting rights of Black people in this state should be on the name of the school and his story widely known and heard about by the people of this state. He is the embodiment of local-Wisconsin Black history.

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
Voting rights are one of the most issues for all of us.  The preservation of the democracy and what our democracy means is tied to the rights of all people to have the ability to vote.  Through honoring Mr. Gillespie and telling what is known of his story we affirm the importance of this idea and the importance of democracy for all.
 

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Sally Hemings is prominent because she bore four children by Thomas Jefferson who survived into adulthood, one of whom moved to Madison, Wi with his family, one of whom was an officer in the Civil War.  Although I am against renaming the school as children can learn history from the name of a founding father,  the name Sally Hemings would also bring this history to light without honoring a slaveholder.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
The significance is that the grandchildren of Sally Hemings attended school in Madison. It would be wonderful for children in the school here to trace the history of this family who research shows made major contributions to the community. They changed their surnames to Jefferson;  the father who is buried here shared his violin music and construction work as he was a master carpenter.

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
The significance is that the family of Thomas Jefferson moved and lived full lives in Madison, with at least the son buried at Forest Hill Cemetery.

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
Many are displeased at the loss of the name of Thomas Jefferson for the school related to his contributions to this nation. To name the school  for this woman who bore his children and who was the half sister of his late wife restores some of the history which is fascinating and recorded in historical documents published in Madison.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased; Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Jefferson was one of the Founding Fathers of this country, a brilliant statesman and a well-respected historical figure.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
This should be self-evident.  The fact the Jefferson owned slaves is only significant in an historical sense.  It does not diminish his contribution to society and the world as a whole.  Check out the background of other prominent figures, i.e.  Rev. Martin Luther King.  You will find tawdry events in his life as well and yet, we name numerous things after him because of the good work he did.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Jefferson was one of our most important Founding Fathers. His work on our Constitution and Bill of Rights should not be overridden by the fact  that he owned slaves, as did most Founding Fathers. Removing his name reflects ignorance of our history,  just another example of the foolishness of ""cancel culture.""

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
He is the person our city is named after.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Thomas Jefferson was one of our Founding Fathers and one of the main authors of our Constitution and Bill of Rights. Like most Founding Fathers he was a slave owner, but this does not diminish his importance. To ""cancel"" him for this reflects historical illiteracy."

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
In my previous submission I foolishly confounded Jefferson and Madison (oops!) Still, he was of such overwhelming importance in our history that he is highly significant to every community in our country. Certainly no  local figure can compete in significance to Madison and the MMSD.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased; Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Thomas Jefferson was our third president and the author of the Declaration of Independence.  His son is buried in Madison Forest Hill Cemetery.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
We have renamed enough public schools for various wrongs committed by the original named individuals.  I believe Thomas Jefferson has enough positive things he has done for our country to justify keeping the name the school has been known since it was originally proposed and built.

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
Jefferson has so many positives as the author of the Declaration of Independence and as the third president of the USA, including the Louisiana Purchase, that  I hate to repudiate this reputation because several people have determined he cannot be forgiven for having slaves.

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
I simply don't believe the fact that he had slaves, as others of his era did, is sufficient reason to rename Jefferson Middle School.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Place of local significance

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
Name of the road out front

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Locally significant geographical site

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
The neighborhood surrounding the school is called Parkwood Hills
 

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
First Black person elected to Madison City Council.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
President of LaFollette High Student Council

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased; Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Eston Hemings Jefferson was one of several children born to Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, and who became free in 1827. Eston, his wife, Julia Ann, and their family (children John Wayles, Anna and Beverly) moved to Madison and contributed significantly to the city’s history. Eston is buried, along with several other family members, at Forest Hill Cemetery. See website for Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s home: https://www.monticello.org/getting-word/families/eston-hemings-jefferson-family
""When they [Eston Hemings and family] settled in Madison, Wisconsin, they changed their surname (to Jefferson) and their race, passing permanently into the white world. The Jefferson sons were popular figures in the state capital, first in the hotel trade and later in business and battle. In the Civil War, John Wayles Jefferson was chosen major in the 8th Wisconsin infantry regiment and rose to the rank of colonel...His brother, Beverly, owned the principal carriage and omnibus firm in Madison.""

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
See above

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
While some might argue that changing the school’s name to Eston Hemings Jefferson Middle School would reflect the advantages of “passing,” I contend, rather, that the name change would underscore (and help teach students about) the repugnant and complicated history slavery in America, while also honoring the struggles and achievements of the Eston Hemings Jefferson family.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Eston Hemings Jefferson was the youngest son of President Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Eston Hemings Jefferson  Hemings spent his early life in Monticello. When Jefferson died in 1826, his will freed Hemings and his siblings. Now a free man, Hemings married a formerly enslaved person, Julia Ann Isaacs, and they had three children. In 1837 he moved his family to Ohio. He became a professional musician there and had his children educated in integrated schools. The family left in 1852 due to the Fugitive Slave Act, which put pressure on ex-slave communities in free states bordering slave states. Hemings moved his family to Madison, Wisconsin, and changed their surname to Jefferson. He died in 1856, a well respected and loved man. His grave is in Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison WI.

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
Their eldest son John Wayles Jefferson served as a white officer in the regular United States Army during the American Civil War, achieving the rank of colonel. John W. Jefferson led the Wisconsin 8th Infantry. He was wounded twice in battle. During the war, he published letters home, and after the war, published articles about his experiences. Before the war, John Jefferson ran the American House hotel in Madison, which was taken over by his younger brother Beverley. Beverley Jefferson was also a Civil War veteran of the Union Army. Returning to Madison, he moved from the American House to run the Capitol House hotels. He founded the first omnibus line in the Wisconsin capital, and was a popular figure among politicians in the city. The Eston Hemings Jefferson family is buried in Forest Hill Cemetery, Madison."

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
President Thomas Jefferson valued education, and insisted that the Heming siblings be well-educated and learn a trade. His son Eston Hemings Jefferson became a professional musician. Had his children educated in integrated schools. His son John Jefferson became a successful cotton broker in Tennessee after the Civil war. His brother Beverly's five sons gained educations and three entered the professions: one became a doctor in Chicago, another an attorney, another worked in railroad management.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
He is the father of Earth Day and lived on the west side of Madison-the Crestwood neighborhood.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
With climate change a threat kids need to learn about local people who fought for a clean environment

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Locally significant geographical site; Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
This letter in the Wisconsin State Journal explains it well: https://madison.com/opinion/letters/charles-j-james-rename-school-after-thomas-jeffersons-son-eston-who-is-buried-in-madison/article_d4a76286-3966-5ac1-b85b-6221518c3104.html

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
Tolerance, inclusivity, and Madison as a safe haven for former slaves

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased; Locally significant geographical site; Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
The youngest son of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, Eston (1808-1856)  lived in Madison from 1852, fought in the Civil War for the Union, and is buried in Forest Hill Cemetery. (His heritage has been confirmed by DNA.) He had been freed from slave status and was a successful musician in Madison.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Renaming a school from ""Thomas Jefferson"" to ""Eston Jefferson"" represents a movement from honoring an significant Caucasian, slave-owner President toward honoring his son from a Black woman who fought for the Union in the war against slavery. This progression honors our District's growth from the casual overlooking  or dismissing  of America's history of slavery to acknowledging  it by honoring  a Madison resident  who transcended  his slave origins.

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
Eston  lived here, and after fighting in the Civil War, enjoyed his music here (not unimportant to Madison), and was buried here.

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
Renaming the school  ""Eston  Hemings Jefferson"" from ""Thomas Jefferson"" implies that the School District, as well as the City of Madison and our country at large, can make progress ourselves when we honor the significant social achievements of this early hero from Madison's history. It continues to honor our important third president  while celebrating his son of the same name , one who moved beyond slavery into active citizenship and productivity.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Dwight David Eisenhower was a highly respected military officer and the 34th president of the United States, serving two terms from 1953 to 1961.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Eisenhower was a Midwesterner with an upbringing and personal values that align perfectly with Wisconsin and Madison: service, integrity, selflessness, and unity. If one is to replace a two-term president (Jefferson), you could hardly find a better substitute than Ike. Eisenhower was a consummate unifier - he almost singlehandedly held together the Allied coalition during World War II, and as president was widely popular among  both Republicans and Democrats.  He is the antithesis of today's poisonous political discourse, and is a positive role model we could all use today.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Mary Woodward Lasker was a prominent American health care activist and philanthropist who raised funds for medical research and later founded the Lasker Foundation, which supports biomedical research. She is perhaps most known for using the power of advertising to fight cancer and was the individual most behind the federal government's decision to fund what she labeled the ""war on cancer"" in the 1970s. She also was instrumental in the founding of the National Institutes for Health.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Mary Lasker was from Watertown, WI and attended UW-Madison.  She was a tireless and active philanthropist who dedicated herself to fighting cancer and supporting medical research.  Among those receiving Lasker Foundations awards were Paul Carbone, the groundbreaking cancer researcher whose name is on UW's cancer center.  She is a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Congressional Gold Medal, and the Mary Woodward Lasker Award for Public Service is named in her honor. She was a powerful female voice for medical causes at a time the field was thoroughly male dominated, and would be an outstanding role model for our middle school students.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
He works at JMM and at Jefferson

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
He did a lot a Jefferson Middle School

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
There is no other site named after him.

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
The community knows the name and what Matt Grey did at Jefferson.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
https://www.wisjustice.org/?pg=ATributetoJusticeShirleyAbrahamson
"After graduating from New York University in three years, she attended the University of Indiana Law School, graduating in 1956 at the age of 21.[2]  A trailblazer for women in the law, she graduated first in her class—the only female—and in 1976 went on to become the first woman to serve on the Wisconsin Supreme Court.[3]  She became Chief Justice in 1996, and in 2013, she became the longest-serving Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice ever.[4]"

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Shirley Abrahamson  is a role model for all who go into law to serve. She was in private practice in Madison for 14 years and was a professor at the UW Law School.  She was the first woman on the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the longest-serving justice in state history,

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
And that random winter night exem­pli­fied the dedic­a­tion of not only a juris­pru­den­tial giant, a trail-blaz­ing woman, but a truly honor­able public servant.""
https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/remembering-shirley-abrahamson-who-broke-barriers-law

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased; Place of local significance

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Eston Hemings is the son of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, who moved to Madison and is buried in Forest Hill Cemetery.   https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/eston-hemings-grave
If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Eston Hemings is the son of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, who moved to Madison and is buried in Forest Hill Cemetery.   https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/eston-hemings-grave

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Wrote Declaration of Independence, helping found the system of governance that has led to more rights and freedoms for all of its citizens than any other country in the world today. He was a flawed human, and a slaveholder.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Get back to work on teaching children reading and STEM. They need that more than you dithering over historical revision.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
May 5, 1886 was the day of the worst labor violence in Wisconsin history. That day the Governor of Wisconsin ordered National Guard troops to fire on protestors who were demanding an 8-hour workday, killing seven people including a 12-year-old boy who was on his way to school.  The MMSD should recognize that Wisconsin's history includes a progressive tradition that has long contributed to workers' rights and attempted to ease income disparity, and that people (including a pupil) have died for rights that today are threatened by changes in the economy. Naming the school ""Fifth of May Middle School"" will prompt people to learn about the massacre and the reasons the workers were striking, and help continue Wisconsin's proud tradition.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
John Wayles Jefferson is the grandson of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings. He moved to Madison in 1852, along with his father Eston.  While in Madison, he operated the city's oldest hotel and later fought in the Civil War as a member of the Eighth Wisconsin Regiment.  John's father, Eston, was born enslaved at Monticello and was one of four surviving children of Jefferson and Hemings.  In 1861, John Wayles joined the Union army and became commander of the Eighth Wisconsin and trained at Camp Randall.  John later was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.  He fought in several battles including Corinth, Nashville, and Vicksburg.  John survived the war and passed away in 1892.  He is buried at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Naming any school after John Wayles would be appropriate.  Renaming Thomas Jefferson Middle School for his grandson, the progeny of his relationship with an enslaved person, and one that achieved great things in the city of Madison, is the perfect bookmark to this story.  What better way is there to honor the history of the area, along with addressing the concerns of naming a building after a notable leader who enslaved humans?

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
Freedom of speech is enshrined in the first amendment in the U.S. Bill of Rights.  In its highest form, education and civil discussion depends on the ability to examine all ideas and discuss them freely.  We want students of MMSD to be able to be exposed to and share controversial ideas and be able to participate in the arena of ideas, whatever those ideas may be.  Thus, this is a civil virtue worth recognizing.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
A1 is short for 'first class' or 'outstanding'. How else would you want to describe your school? It is simple yet beautiful. You could also tell folks to 'have an A1 day' literally every day.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Locally significant geographical site

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
This geographical area was important to first nations peoples who first lived here due to the chain of four lakes here.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
The Talliafaros were leaders in Madison for civil and equal rights throughout the the 50s, 60s and 70s. Leading the creation of the NAACP chapter here in a time when some of the KKK leaders were still alive and kicking. He was a Chemistry Department Academic staff person who set up lecturer's experiments for hundreds of Chem Dept classes over the years. They were both prominent in the First Unitarian Society and the Madison Society of Friends.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
The Talliafaros were people of peace and leaders by example for civil rights, the right to vote and brought the African American community together for positive change.

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
The significance is in their example. You can find extensive obituaries on them in the State Journal/ Capitol Times archives. Both of their children attended Madison schools. They became my god parents and watched over me and many children throughout their very meaningful lives.

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
Because these two people exemplified the best in community stewardship, civil rights, equal rights , and the peace movement. They did not seek glory, rather they embodied it. They worked hard to do the right thing in an era in which African Americans in Madison struggled mightily for equality.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased; Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Frederick Madison Roberts (September 14, 1879 – July 19, 1952) was an American newspaper owner and editor, educator and business owner. He became a politician, the first known man of African American descent elected to the California State Assembly. He served there for 16 years and became known as ""dean of the assembly."" He has been honored as the first person of African-American descent to be elected to public office among the states on the West Coast.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Aside from his middle name, Frederick Madison Roberts has no direct connection to Madison, Wisconsin. However, he does have an important connection to the former name of Jefferson Middle School: he is the great-grandson of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, who was enslaved along with her children on their father's Monticello plantation.

Replacing Jefferson with Roberts on the name of the middle school demonstrates that this is not an exercise in erasing American history but a teaching moment -- an opportunity to tell students a fuller story of our social and political evolution. Frederick Madison Roberts is, both literally and symbolically, as much a son of the founders of the United States as any white person. His inspiring biography attests to the value of hard work and education; the social and legal changes brought by the 14th Amendment and the Great Migration; and the importance of his legislative career and activism to challenge political and economic segregation.

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
This is not a place of local significance, but the story of Frederick Madison Roberts does connect to Madison and Wisconsin in a broad way. The state and the city have an important, early abolitionist history, founding the Republican Party as an anti-slavery coalition and sending volunteers like Hans Christian Heg's 15th Wisconsin Volunteer Regiment to fight the Civil War and end slavery in the United States.
Roberts's grandfather (Jefferson's son) was emancipated in Jefferson's will before the Civil War and moved his family north to Ohio in order to live in free territory. The story of Sally Heming's descendants is therefore very much intertwined with the Civil War and the sectional crisis over slavery that preceded it.

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
By naming the school after Frederick Madison Roberts, MMSD will create historic continuity between the old name of the school and the new. It shows that we are not afraid of our past, but rather that we learn from it and teach our children to do the same.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
It satisfies this asinine renaming process

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Place of local significance

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Hugo is widely know across the nation for his historic barks and cheese obsession, he served for WW1 and WW2 for the dogs of the world  and pledges to keep this world and cheese safe.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Jeff was a leader on behalf of disabled Madisonians and was certainly widely known as such during his lifetime. Naming the school after him, would keep him and what he personified prominent. His prominence is also demonstrated by the fact that he has a Wikipedia entry, which  goes over his accomplishments and life story: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Erlanger .

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Attended  and graduated from MMSD public schools (and Edgewood College)  and succeeded during his school years and thereafter despite his disability in having a meaningful engaged life, becoming an active member of the community and spokesperson for the disabled community, with a fetching personality and lots of friends. A real inspiration to me and others who knew him or can learn about him.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Eston Hemings Jefferson is the son of third US President Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, a woman who he held in slavery.  The story of the Hemings family is the subject of several books, notably the Pulitzer Prize winning, ""The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family"" by Annette Gordon-Reed, renowned historian and Harvard faculty.  The Hemings family story illustrates the prominent role of slavery in the lives of the founding fathers and early US History.  With such strong ties to Madison and our history with the Underground Railroad, Jefferson Middle School ought to be renamed to recognize Eston as a Madisonian and expand our understanding of his father, Thomas Jefferson.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
Eston Hemings Jefferson was a Madison resident from approximately 1850 - 1856 and is buried along with his extended family in Forest Hill Cemetery.  His family's relocation to this community underscores the value of Madison as a key destination for travelers on the Underground Railroad.  The harsh realities of that era drove him to pass for white in Madison in order to protect his family from being kidnapped as allowed under the Fugitive Slave Act.  In short, there is no other Madisonian whose life illustrates the central role of slavery in our nation's history as clearly.

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
Eston Hemings Jefferson and his extended family are buried in the Forest Hill Cemetery, which also holds indigenous burial mounds from 1,200 years ago or more.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
Voting is at the heart of our democracy.  Voters determine the makeup of the School Board and approve or deny funding referendums.  Voter turnout is critical to ensure our society is well represented.  Middle school students are not too young to learn about their civic responsibility to become informed voters and can encourage their parents to participate.  The Madison community has supported voting rights initiatives in the past.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Bayard Rustin was an American civil rights activist.  He is widely and popularly known as an adviser to Martin Luther King, Jr., and was the main organizer of the March on Washington in 1963.  Rustin played a huge role in the civil rights movement, becoming a close advisor to Martin Luther King, Jr in the mid 1950’s. In the 1980’s, Rustin became involved in the gay rights movement and never stopped advocating for human rights until his death in  1987. He was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
As an openly gay, Black man working for civil rights in the 1950’s-1970’s and gay rights from 1980 until his death, Bayard Rustin represents a level a intersectionality, social activism, and representation that is incredibly significant to MMSD and is not currently seen widely in the district. Why choose Bayard Rustin over others? He fought for his role in the civil rights movement, while simultaneously refusing to deny his sexuality and identity. MMSD has nationally recognized Welcoming Schools, whose mission is to use an intersectional, anti-racist lens dedicated to actionable policies and practices to uplift school communities. Rustin was an active anti-racist and incredible role model for young people during his life. His legacy continues to inspire youth to work towards goals of civil rights for marginalized people, especially Black and gay people. There’s no better candidate for a school name to embody MMSD’s mission for students to be ready for community, career and college.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Idea or concept which represents a broadly respected civic virtue

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
In 2020 Jefferson adopted the acronym PRIDE²  Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, Excellence, Equity (credit to former AP Larry Love).  These values encompassed within the PRIDE² acronym are visible in the hallways, newsletters (Jaguar Pride) and t-shirts, so are already familiar to Jefferson students. Humans are fallible, but values we hold are something we can always stand behind confidently.  Learning about the leaders of our world who have demonstrated  PRIDE²  can be incorporated into our curriculum throughout the year with celebrations of diversity.

Into which of these categories does the proposed name fall?
Prominent national or local figure who is deceased

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, describe why this person is considered prominent. “Prominent” is defined as “widely and popularly known.”
Anna Julia Haywood reflects the values that most middle schools have for their students to be engaged in their education. She was born a slave in Raleigh, North Carolina 1858. She became a teacher and a model to seek an education that women were not accepted for and an advocate for women to get their education. Her ideas and her life reflect not only behavior to obtain knowledge and skills, but to enhance hope and strength.

If the proposed name is a prominent local or national figure who is deceased, what is the significance of the person specifically to the Madison Metropolitan School District that it should choose to name a school for this particular person over others of similar prominence?
The name of the school metaphorically becomes the arms that massage the mind, emotions, physical self, and moral self of the students . It serves as the backbone for the curriculum and instruction. Every school except a few is free from the ills of postmodernism which brings isolation, fragmentation, and meaningless language. Dr. Anna Julia Haywood's life and her last stage which is eternal self brings an invitation to learning and becoming educated and building ethical principles as students and adults in a building.

If the proposed name is a locally significant geographical site or a place of local significance, what is the significance to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular geographical site or place of local significance?
The building reflects the message of what it means to enter a school that provides education for all leading with a meaningful goal to become and experience free will to reflect on their now and their future.

If the proposed name is an idea or concept which is a broadly respected community value, what is the significance of this idea or concept to the Madison Metropolitan School District? For what reason would the Madison Metropolitan School District choose to name a building for this particular idea or concept?
Freedom Enterprise is a concept within the ideals of democracy. Anna Julia Haywood's stage of mortality would set up a journey to lead under a pedagogical linguistic process for every student to be successful, explore their identity and dignity, and be literarily knowledgeable, not absent from the science and arts that enhance value for humanitarian ideals. And, the product is for one's linguistic style reflects not only love for knowledge but for ones identity, to make a difference in the community. This is evolution of history.