Alumni react to Armstrong High School renaming

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Alumni from one of Richmond’s oldest public schools are speaking out following a recent decision to rename Armstrong High School.

During a Tuesday, Dec. 2 meeting, the Richmond School Board members voted unanimously to restore the school’s former name, Armstrong-Kennedy High School, citing strong community advocacy.

Supporters say the change helps reclaim history that was lost, while others argue the decision overlooks more pressing needs.

Class of 1983 Armstrong alumni Darryl Battle talked about how the debate is rooted in decades of complex history.

“Before desegregation, Armstrong and Walker were the only two schools that African Americans could attend. So, the significance that that brings to the table, not to dismiss Kennedy's, but that tradition speaks loudly,” Watts said.

In 1980, Armstrong High and John F. Kennedy High School were combined to form the Armstrong-Kennedy High School Complex. The schools were fully merged in 2004 due to declining enrollment, and the Kennedy name was later dropped.

Class of 1970 Kennedy alumni Dennis Malllory Sr. said they have waited 21 years for recognition.

“Kennedy history, compared to Armstrong, it’s like comparing David to Goliath,” said Mallory. “We were not trying to slay the dragon. We just wanted to coexist with it. All we are asking for is the name on the building. Win-win solution for both schools.” 

Class of 2006 Armstrong alumni Doron Battle recalled when the schools merged in 2004.

“It was chaotic at the beginning because you're trying to bring all of these neighborhoods together, all 5 or 6 housing communities,” said Battle. “After a while it kind of just moved itself out, honestly, because it didn't matter to us.”

Battle said restoration should be made for more dire needs instead of a name change.

“We got a pothole in the track, potholes on a football field. A football team who went 12-0 this year plays on crabgrass, we’re without concession stands and the scoreboard might not work,” Battle said.

School board members said the renaming Armstrong-Kennedy High School will take effect in July 2027. Plans also include installing a historic marker and display cases to highlight the school’s history.