Atlanta’s Henry W. Grady High School Will Get a New Name

Atlanta’s Henry W. Grady High School will soon have a new name.

A committee recommended re-naming the school after former journalist Ida B. Wells. But some said not so fast and stopped the process to allow the students to weigh in.

Grady High School is currently named after a 19th-century newspaper editor who endorsed white supremacy. Critics say Henry Grady’s name doesn’t reflect today’s values.



Students and school officials began a petition to change the school’s name. And now students have been asked to rank their top three choices.

In addition to Ida B. Wells High School, other suggested names include Midtown High School or Piedmont High School.

The board is expected to approve a new name on Dec. 7.

A note of disclosure: The Atlanta Board of Education holds WABE’s broadcast license.