Robert E. Lee High School name change debate resurfaces

TYLER — The debate to change the name of Robert E. Lee High School in Tyler has resurfaced. According to our news partner KETK, over 75 protestors supporting the change showed up outside Monday night’s board meeting with one goal – to put the topic back on the board’s agenda. Back in 2018, after several months of debate, the motion to change the school’s name was ultimately tabled with no action taken.

Now, two petitions have circulated. One calling for change and the other asking to keep the name the same.

Before the meeting, Tyler ISD Board President Wade Washmon released a statement:

“We as a board are well aware of the issues surrounding the names of both of our flagship high schools. We have heard from, and anticipate hearing more, from the community on the subject. This time in between school years will hopefully be used to discuss, and find both consensus and meaningful resolution in a unified manner. Our thoughts on this matter will be limited to future board meetings where this topic is on the agenda, and of course during our conversations with community members. It is our obligation to remain poised and reasonable during this time, and we would appreciate your patience as we work, serve, and handle the business of this district while also addressing this issue. All media inquiries should be directed through the Tyler ISD communications department.”

Only those who previously signed up were allowed inside the board meeting to speak, leading to 46 people voicing their opinions. After the public was given the chance to speak, the Tyler ISD board continued with the agenda which did not have the Robert E. Lee name listed as an item of discussion.