Editor, Gazette-Journal:

I would like to thank Mathews School Board members for showing courage to change the name of Lee-Jackson School. Board members risked future re-election and insult for their decision. I commend John Priest for his insistence on clarity and adherence to procedural details in order to avoid impediments to implementing the decision.

Kamilah Turner deserves congratulations for initiating and organizing an exemplary grassroots effort to bring about positive change. Her leadership, passion, and energy inspired local involvement, and her organizational structure, creativity, and attendance to fine points brought about success. Bravo, Ms. Turner!

There are now myths about the decision to be dispelled. First, the group of Black Panthers that showed up was not known or invited by Ms. Turner; they came on their own, unexpected; this was a totally local effort. Second, school board members were not intimidated into their decision; they studied and considered the ...