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Residents urge renaming of Magruder Elementary and raise concerns about transgender and ICE policies

2164716 ยท January 28, 2025

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Summary

Speakers at the Jan. 27 public comment period urged the school board to rename Magruder Elementary because of Confederate associations and raised concerns about transgender student treatment and ICE presence in schools; no board action was taken.

Several residents addressed the York County School Board during the public comment period on Jan. 27, 2025, urging a name change for Magruder Elementary and raising concerns about how the division treats transgender students, the possible presence of ICE agents in schools and human trafficking awareness.

Mary Lassiter of the Bruton district urged the board to rename Magruder Elementary to Bruton Elementary. Lassiter cited historical research she said documents the school's namesake as an admirer of Confederate general John B. Magruder and requested transparency from the division about the school's history. She also said she and others provided corrected archival materials to school administrators and asked the board about next steps for a name change.

Pam Puccio of District 4 told the board she viewed recent federal actions as generating local fear about transgender students, and she urged the board to protect students. Puccio expressed concern about ICE agents entering schools without warrants and asked the division to prepare a plan directing agents to contact central administration if they arrive on campus. She also suggested posting stickers in middle- and high-school restroom stalls with contact information for students who need help, referencing anti-trafficking outreach.

Board members did not take action on the requests during the meeting. Staff said a follow-up would be made when concerns are brought to the division's attention and that speakers who raise issues can expect staff outreach.

Ending: The board closed public comment and moved to the next agenda items; residents seeking changes or assurances were advised to follow up with staff for next steps.