Kensington Elementary School Changes Name to Honor LGBTQ+ Activist

Philip H. Sheridan Elementary School recently changed its name to Gloria Casarez Elementary School in commemoration of Philadelphia’s first Director of the Office of LGBT Affairs. 

To further honor its new namesake the school held an American and pride flag raising ceremony on August 29, 2022. Speakers at the ceremony, which was attended by the elementary school’s students, included the current Executive Director of Philadelphia’s Office of LGBT Affairs as well as Casarez’s wife. 

Prior to the first day of classes Gloria Casarez Elementary School also updated its logo to include the pride flag.

In addition to changing its name and logo the school has promised new curricula that will include lessons on Casarez’s legacy and activism. These lessons will be taught during social studies classes beginning as early as kindergarten.