CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Members of Indivisible Charlottesville gathered in front of the Federal Executive Institute (FEI) on Thursday, May 15, 2025, to protest the Department of Education’s choice to renege on its decision to let Charlottesville City Schools (CCS) acquire the FEI.

Approximately 100 were there to wave signs, with many who drove by blowing their horns to show support. The protesters included many teachers and parents, all of whom felt that the University of Virginia should give FEI to CCS.

The district’s proposal would have moved its administrative offices to the 14-acre, five building property, as well as create a new preschool for students with specialized needs. The U.S. Department of Education initially conveyed the FEI to CSS. Less than two weeks later, the district was informed that the department had reversed its decision.

The chants included, “City land for city kids.” Among the signs were ‘Education for common people,’ ‘UVA don’t steal from Charlottesville’ and ‘Where is your full support and enthusiasm now?’.

UVA has not yet taken full possession of the property, and says it is still seeking information about the implications of the acquisition.