“It is more than fitting we connect the past to the present by naming The Academy of Teaching, Learning, & Social Justice in honor of Hattie J. Beverly.”
Innovation Central High School’s principal, Derrick Martin announced the dedication Friday at the school on Fountain Street.
Hattie Beverly graduated from Central High School in 1897, then taught at Congress Elementary starting in 1899.
State Representative Kristian Grant noted Beverly had to convince school board and community members a black woman should be allowed to teach mostly white students.
“Her story is a reminder of what so many African Americans have experienced but also what they have overcome.”
Academy student Barrrett Vernon said the renaming is not only a strong reminder of the past but a message for the future.
“A model of what can be done when the barriers of class, race, gender, sexual orientation or disability are torn down and we make our way through the rubble with grace and admission.”
Superintendent Leadriane Roby read a letter from Beverly’s family.
“Your commitment to celebrating the history of trailblazers like Hattie ensures that future generations understand the importance of resilience and representation.”
Roby revealed the renaming is meaningful to the family because Beverly and her sister, also a teacher, are buried in a Grand Rapids cemetery without headstones to mark their graves so the school plaque serves as a memorial as well.
