George RicksHoward School of Academics and Technology will go back to its roots as the school takes on its original name, the Howard School.
The Hamilton County Board of Education voted unanimously Thursday to change the school’s name back to the name it went by for more than 100 years. The academics and technology portion of the name was added about 20 years ago after a committee reviewed ways to improve Howard’s image and vocational programs were moved in after the closing of Kirkman Technological High School.
But since Howard and Brainerd High were moved off magnet school status last month, officials say Howard’s title should be changed back.
“This is something the community wants. It’s something the principal wants. And I think it’s a good time to do it,” said school board member George Ricks, who represents the school.
Officials said neither the name change nor the move from magnet status would affect funding for Howard or Brainerd. Because magnet school grants have expired, those schools are no longer eligible for any special funding, said Christie Jordan, director of accounting and budgeting.