School naming committee approves renaming Brick Church Middle School for Judge Richard H. Dinkins

The Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools school naming committee voted to rename Brick Church Middle School the Richard H. Dinkins Middle School, effective in the new school year this August, the committee chair announced after a hand vote.

Dr. Battle, speaking to the committee, described Judge Richard H. Dinkins as "a hugely important figure in the history of our school district" and said Dinkins "made a major impact as the lead attorney in the school desegregation lawsuit that guided our course for nearly 3 decades before he helped us settle it in 1998." Dr. Battle also outlined Dinkins' subsequent judicial career, saying Dinkins "took on numerous high profile civil rights education and employment cases as an attorney before he became a Davidson County Chancellor in 02/2003, and then became the first black judge on the Tennessee Court of Appeals in 02/2008."

Dr. Battle told the committee the renaming is intended to acknowledge Dinkins' work on equity and education and that staff would "begin to work diligently, with our MSAP team, with the Brick Church, current Brick Church, school community, as well as the state, to rename the school and get, all the signs and and, language updated and, recognized within the state code system." He also noted members of Judge Dinkins' family were expected to attend the later school board meeting.

Board member Mays, who spoke at the committee meeting, said she was honored to be part of the decision and recalled that "Judge Jenkins actually was the, judge that swore me in for my first term," concluding "yay, judge Dinkins." Board member Nabal McKinney said she was "excited about this name changing, recognition as well" and described the renaming as "a testament" to the school returning to Metro Nashville Public Schools and to the promise of improved outcomes for students in the Whites Creek community.

Committee chair Board member Taylor called for a motion to rename the school. The motion was moved by Board member Tyler and seconded by Board member Faye. The committee conducted a hand vote; Chair Taylor said, "All in favor, say aye and raise your hand," then declared "ayes have it." The committee adjourned after the vote.

The presentation and vote focused on honoring Dinkins' role in desegregation litigation and his judicial service; committee members discussed the school's return to Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools and the expectations for the school community going forward. Dr. Battle and staff said they would coordinate updates to signage and state records to reflect the new name.