Board votes to rename Indian Head school-based health center; honoree recorded as Dr. Chinedari Devadison

The Board of Education of Charles County voted during its Nov. 24 work session to rename the Indian Head school-based health center for a local public-health official the board discussed.

Board member Mila Smith moved to name the facility after the individual presented by staff; Vice Chair Kramer seconded. Smith and other board members cited the nominee’s multi-decade public-health service to Charles County and neighboring jurisdictions, mentioning leadership on services such as dental care for low-income children and HIV/AIDS awareness and treatment efforts during his tenure. Smith summarized historical service and community ties and said she believed the name would appropriately honor his legacy.

The board used a virtual hand-raise to indicate support. The chair announced the motion passed by majority and directed staff to manage next steps — including administrative logistics and scheduling of a ribbon-cutting — with clarification to follow on exact naming conventions and spelling.

Note on spelling: the transcript records inconsistent renderings of the honoree’s name (examples include "Devadison," "Devadatsan," and "Devadossin"). The board discussion cited staff recommendation from a prior presentation; the board asked staff to confirm the correct spelling and notify colleagues. The motion language recorded in the meeting file reflects the spelling as presented in the session.

What happens next: staff will complete administrative updates (mailing address, signage and an eventual ribbon-cutting date) and confirm the honoree’s correct name spelling before public materials are finalized.