Investigation Into Segregation Signs In Rockdale County School

An investigation is ongoing after a teacher at Honey Creek Elementary in Rockdale County reportedly used unapproved materials for a social studies lesson.

Fox 5 Atlanta reports the teacher posted signs that read “For Whites Only” and “For Colored Only” as part of her lesson on Ruby Bridges. Bridges, now 70, was only six years old when she integrated an all-white elementary school in Louisiana in 1960.

A parent of a Honey Creek Elementary student addressed the matter during the Rockdale County Board of Education meeting on April 17. She also claims that the spouse of a school administrator “shamed” her on the Nextdoor app after posting about the incident online.

The parent urged the board to take the investigation seriously. She also requested for counseling to be offered to students who may have been emotionally affected.

Honey Creek’s principal sent a letter to students. It says, in part:

“Please know that this activity was not included in the teacher’s submitted lesson plans and was not approved by school administration. While we do not believe there was ill intent, we do expect all faculty to follow the plans that are submitted and approved.”

NAACP Condemns The Incident

In a joint statement issued Thursday (Apr. 24) the Georgia NAACP and Rockdale County NAACP condemned the incident.

“The Georgia NAACP and The Rockdale County NAACP are appalled and heartbroken by the deeply disturbing incident at a Rockdale County school, where a water fountain was defaced with a sign reading ‘White Only.’ This isn’t just an act of ignorance—it’s a chilling echo of our nation’s darkest chapters. It is a stark reminder that the legacy of segregation is not history for many—it is still a lived reality.”

“Let us say this with absolute clarity: Racism has no place in our schools, in our communities, or in our country. This was not a prank. This was an act of racial hostility that reopens wounds still felt by generations of Americans who have fought, and continue to fight, for equality and dignity.”

“This moment demands more than outrage—it demands action.”

“We call on the Rockdale County School District to move swiftly and decisively. Accountability is non-negotiable. But accountability alone is not enough. This moment must spark comprehensive, systemic change:”

• Mandatory anti-racism education rooted in historical truth
• Cultural competency training for all educators, administrators, and students
• Safe spaces for dialogue led by trusted voices from our communities
• Transparent engagement with parents and stakeholders, rooted in trust, equity, and repair

“The Georgia NAACP and the Rockdale County NAACP stand in solidarity with every student who felt devalued, every parent who felt betrayed, and every educator who believes in justice. We will not let this moment pass quietly. We are here—to confront, to collaborate, and to help this community heal with purpose.”

“This is not about one sign. It is about what we allow, what we teach, and what we stand for.”

“The time for silence is over.”

“The time for transformation is now.”