Grovetown High name wasn't hasty

I hear continuing criticism about the Columbia County School Board choosing the name Grovetown High School for our newest school. I wanted to give my rationale for supporting this name.

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I moved to Brookfield West (first street in Columbia County) in 1979. Our real estate agent showed us homes in Augusta, and then brought us to this brand-new subdivision all the way out Washington Road where we could get a new home for a good bit less than the resales in Augusta. I am frugal and very practical so went for the better deal.

Our zip code was 30907, but everyone told us to use "Augusta" as our address because it was more prestigious. Well, times have changed, and now Martinez and Evans are noted as premier addresses.

Let me give another example. I was active as a parent volunteer and watched as Greenbrier High was built. This caused a rezoning of students from Evans and Lakeside.

I remember many comments from parents that they didn't want their children attending the new school. One complaint I heard, was "We live in a country club-type neighborhood, so our children should go to the country club school." They were bitter when the school board didn't cave to their demands.

The rezoning sent them to Greenbrier because it was closer than any other high school. It only took a year or two before Greenbrier was bringing in the accolades, and the perceived stigma was gone.

So the bottom line is that the name Grovetown High was not a hasty decision. For as long as I can remember, the people of Grovetown have been begging for schools bearing that name. Long before the school board even selected property for the school, we were hearing the school called Grovetown High.

It is a good name. It has a proud heritage. Those in doubt should visit the city of Grovetown. Spend some time at the monument to those who have defended our country. It will build the pride in you.

As an ending note, if we named the school after a dignitary it should be called Trudeau High School in honor of the mayor who has led the city and is such a strong advocate for Grovetown. Thanks to all for your support and interest in our school system. An engaged community is necessary for us to continue to succeed.

Regina Buccafusco is chairwoman of the Columbia County Board of Education.