Charlottesville, VA (September 4, 2024) – Venable Elementary School will officially become Trailblazer Elementary School on September 9th, 2024, in a ceremony honoring the Charlottesville Twelve. These brave students became the first Black students to desegregate Venable and Lane High School in 1959, predating Ruby Bridges’ historic accomplishment in 1960.

The “Trailblazer” name also recognizes the efforts of the Charlottesville Twelve’s parents and other early advocates for desegregation in the city. The renaming ceremony will take place at 10:00 am at Trailblazer Elementary (formerly Venable) located at 406 14th St. (phone: 434-245-2418).

For more information, please contact:

• Mr. Alex-Zan, Charlottesville Twelve student (434-202-0773, [email address removed], www.alex-zan.com)
• Charlottesville City Schools Communications, Beth Chuek (434-245-2400)