Governing board names School 17 'Troy Gilbert Elementary' after unanimous vote

The Litchfield Elementary School District governing board voted unanimously on Feb. 4 to name the district’s new School 17 "Troy Gilbert Elementary." The board approved the motion after a presentation of community feedback and remarks from family members and military leaders who described Major Troy Gilbert’s service and legacy.

Superintendent Dr. Davidson and district staff told the board they solicited feedback from families, staff and students about potential names and about the types of opportunities parents wanted for students. "Our families... ranked that they would like students to have more opportunities connected to military leadership," Dr. Davidson said in presenting the recommendation to the board.

Retired four-star Gen. Robin Rand addressed the board remotely and urged naming the school after Major Gilbert, saying Gilbert’s actions in Iraq on Nov. 27, 2006, saved the lives of others and exemplified the character the district wants to honor. "He fulfilled his oath to our Constitution," Gen. Rand said. "It’s a slam dunk."

Ginger Gilbert Ravella, Major Gilbert’s widow, traveled to attend the meeting and described her husband’s life and the support the family received from the district after his death. "Troy was an officer and a gentleman... he was an incredibly selfless human, a devoted father, an amazing husband," she told the board. She said naming the school for him would inspire students who ask why the building carries his name.

School staff said student and staff feedback leaned toward Major Gilbert. After remarks from staff and the family, a board member moved to approve the name. The motion passed with all board members voting "aye." The board president called the vote and noted the motion passed unanimously.

Ending

Board members praised the recommendation and thanked the Gilbert family and military representatives for attending. The board held a brief recognition and photo opportunity after the vote.