Heath School

In 1841, a road stretching from Boylston Street to the Newton line received a name: Heath Street. The Heath family, for whom the road was named, had deep roots in Brookline, their influence intertwined with the very fabric of the community. Little did anyone know that this seemingly innocuous act of naming a street would spark a century-long debate, culminating in the renaming of the Heath School. The Heath School, nestled on Heath Street, served generations of Brookline children. The Heath family themselves took great pride in the school’s presence on their namesake street. Teachers often boarded with the family, fostering close bonds. For years, the school, initially the Middle District School on Heath Street, thrived under this name, a testament to its connection with the local community. But a discovery in the recent past cast a shadow on this legacy. Town records revealed a troubling truth: the Heath family, those pillars of the community, had enslaved at least three people: Primus, Kate, and Dinah. This revelation sent ripples through Brookline. How could a beloved school bear the name of enslavers? This question ignited a community-wide conversation about identity, inclusion, and the importance of acknowledging a difficult past. The school, a symbol of learning and growth, now carried the weight of a history incompatible with its values. The community, determined to reconcile this conflict, embarked on a journey of renaming. Students, from 4th to 10th grade, formed a committee. They researched, deliberated, and ultimately presented four finalists: Ruth Batson, Ellen & William Craft, Roland Hayes, and John Woodrow Wilson. Each candidate represented a remarkable contribution to society, their stories woven into the rich tapestry of American history. The community voted, their voices echoing the desire for a name that truly reflected their values. Finally, on November 16, 2023, a new chapter began for the Heath School. At a town meeting, members voted overwhelmingly to rename the school the Roland Hayes School. Roland Hayes, a renowned classical tenor born in 1887, had risen from humble beginnings to become a world-renowned musician. He had lived in Brookline with his family, his life a testament to the power of perseverance and artistic expression. The Roland Hayes School now stands not only as a place of learning but as a symbol of transformation and a reminder of the importance of facing the complexities of history.