The Richland One Board of School Commissioners is seeking public input on a request to rename the W.J. Keenan Theatre (at the former site of Keenan High School on Pine Belt Road, now W.G. Sanders Middle School) in honor of Freddie E. Grace Jr., a 26- year employee of Richland One who passed away in April.

During his tenure in Richland One, Grace served in various capacities including orchestra teacher, assistant band director, assistant girls varsity basketball coach and lead orchestra teacher.

The school board has appointed a committee to study the request. Anyone interested in commenting on the proposal should prepare a written statement and mail to: The Ad Hoc Committee on Naming Facilities, ATTN: Dr. Carlos L. Smith, 1616 Richland Street, Room 211, Columbia, SC 29201.

Comments also may be emailed to csmith @richlandone.org or faxed to 231-7497. The deadline to submit responses is September 22, 2009.

For more information about the proposal, contact Dr. Smith at 231-7496.