Robert Russa Moton Elementary School in Perrine was originally built in 1957.

The school was named after Robert Russa Moton, a prominent African American educator and civil rights leader who succeeded Booker T. Washington as principal of Tuskegee Institute.

Given the history of West Perrine and Richmond Heights during segregation and early integration periods, Moton Elementary became a cornerstone educational institution for the community and generations of families. This petition exists to ensure that the voices of parents, students, educators, and community members are heard and respected in decisions that directly impact our children. We believe that dismantling a successful, diverse, and tightly knit school to address systematic enrollment challenges elsewhere is neither equitable nor educationally sound. 

We stand together to advocate for transparency, meaningful collaboration, and solutions that preserve what works. Our children deserve stability, emotional security, and an educational environment grounded in trust and strong relationships. 
Separating this school would fracture a family that has been built since 1957 and would cause lasting academic, social, and emotional harm.
Through this petition, we call on decision-makers to pause this action, engage in genuine dialogue, and commit to keeping our school united- for our children, for future generations, and for the family we proudly call our school.

It is where grandparents once walked as children.
It is where parents learned to read, dance, and dream.

It is where today’s students are discovering who they are.

For generations, R.R. Moton Elementary has been a cornerstone of West Perrine — a safe place, a community gathering space, a symbol of pride in a historically Black neighborhood that has fought hard for opportunity and equity.

Now, our school is facing closure or charter conversion due to declining enrollment.

Closing this school would not just move students — it would erase history. It would remove a pillar of stability from a community that has already endured disinvestment and broken promises.

R.R. Moton carries the name of Dr. Robert Russa Moton, a leader who dedicated his life to advancing education for African Americans. To close a school bearing his name, in a community that reflects his mission, would be devastating.

We are not asking for sympathy.

We are asking for opportunity.

Give us an extension.

One year to increase enrollment.

One year to implement magnet programs in Arts, Sports, and Academic Enrichment.

One year to prove that when a community stands together, it can rebuild what others are ready to give up on.

West Perrine deserves investment — not abandonment.

Our children deserve stability — not disruption.

Our legacy deserves protection — not erasure.

Sign this petition. Stand with us. Save R.R. Moton Elementary.

Community Organizer & Alumni

Michelle Mosley

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