The memorial benches that were in the hall by the main office were removed by staff Thursday, September 12th.
The benches were purchased by the class of 2013 with the intentions of creating a peaceful place for students to learn, study and have fun.
One of the memorial benches is for former CHS student athlete Marvell T. Edmonson, known as a “popular young man,” who passed away from a hazing incident at Virginia State University on April 20, 2013.
The other bench is for former school secretary Martha McEwen who passed from health issues January 3, 2013.
When the benches arrived, they were placed on the school seal as a temporary spot. The benches have been in the main hall for over two years, roped off and untouched for that long.
Controversy started when the benches were relocated to the 'Dreaming Garden' outside near the Senior Court Yard, prompting some to say that school staff were being insensitive.
In discussing how the rumors spread, assistant principal, Mrs. Incorminias, said, "One person took it and ran with it."
However, former Churchland High School principal, Dr. Bechtol, had put in a work order years ago to have the benches relocated to the 'Dreaming Garden.'
When new principal, Mr. Millaci, arrived to the school, he intended to complete unfinished projects around the campus.
“It should have been done a long time ago," Millaci said.
The Dreaming Garden has a set plan for the future, and right now it is at phase one. Later classes that graduate can donate money or a gift to the garden. Within the near future, the horticulture class will plant flowers along it's walkway.
