TISD School Board Discusses Robert E. Lee Name Change

TYLER — The Tyler Independent School District School Board met last night to discuss the possible name change of Robert E. Lee High School. According to KETK, no “official” decision has been made. Residents on both sides of the issue got a chance to voice their concerns. At the meeting, one school board member commented that if a vote to change the name of Robert E. Lee is made, other schools like John Tyler High School should also be changed. Because of their connection to slavery, some say anything named after Lee or Tyler should be renamed. This follows a recent school board meeting where community members argued for and against the Robert E. Lee High School name. 43 people spoke on the subject at the August 21 meeting.

In naming, renaming, or modifying the name of any school building or other facility in the District, the following guidelines shall be used:

1. A facility may be named after a person who has served the District or community.
2. A facility may be named after any local, state, or national heroic figure.
3. A facility may be named after any local, state, or national geographic area.
4. The Board must approve the naming of all facilities. A person whose name is considered must have made a significant contribution to society and/or education, and the name should lend prestige and status to an institution of learning.