HOLLYWOOD, Calif.–A board covering a sign naming the auditorium of a Hollywood elementary school for Michael Jackson was removed.
The sign was unveiled in 1989 when the auditorium at Gardner Street Elementary School, which Jackson attended, was refurbished, but was covered when Jackson was charged with child molestation. The sign remained covered despite his acquittal.
Jackson fans began a campaign following his death last year to have the sign uncovered. Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Ramon C. Cortines directed the cover to be removed “in recognition of Michael Jackson’s musical legacy and contribution to modern culture,” he said.
Board of Education member Steven Zimmer, whose district includes the school, said “it’s important for the district to value the artistic impact and humanitarian contribution that will be the lasting legacy of Michael Jackson.”
“I’m happy that we will be recognizing and appreciating Michael’s LAUSD moment,” Zimmer said.
Gardner Street Elementary School was the last public school Jackson attended. As an 11-year-old sixth grader Motown released “Diana Ross Presents the Jackson 5,” the group’s debut album, three months after the 1969-70 school year began. The album started Jackson on his way to becoming an international star.
