Monticello Middle School, like several CH-UH schools, was named for the street upon which it is located. While it is unclear why the street itself was named Monticello, it shares its name with a plantation owned by Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson enslaved more than six hundred people throughout his life, 400 of whom lived in bondage at Monticello (video: Black Descendants Of Thomas Jefferson Speak Out At Monticello [TODAY, July 6, 2020]).

The District is engaged in an important and thoughtful process regarding the potential renaming of Monticello Middle School, led in partnership with consultant Dr. Gregory Hutchings. This initiative aligns with our district’s ongoing commitment to equity and inclusion, and it is important that we engage with the community throughout this journey. Thank you to all who participated in the focus groups, discussion sessions, and survey. Findings will be presented to the Board of Education in early 2025.