Crowley ISD board names Elementary School No. 17 for the Baylor family after public comment

The Crowley Independent School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously to name Elementary School No. 17 for the Baylor family, a decision the board said recognizes the family's role in the district's history and local civic life.

Superintendent Michael McFarlane told trustees the naming followed the board's naming process (policy CW local) and community input that produced five finalists including the Baylor family. After the administration's recommendation, Trustee June W. Davis moved to accept the recommendation and Dr. Latanya Woodson Mayfield seconded; the motion passed unanimously.

The vote followed a string of public comments in favor of the Baylor nomination during the meeting's open forum. Dr. Jared Williams, who identified himself as an alumnus, said the family's experience integrating Crowley ISD in 1964 had lasting local importance. "Their care courage helped pave the way for future generations like me," he said. Melissa Stiles, who said she worked with Billy Baylor for many years, urged the board to act during Black History Month and recounted the family's struggles and community contributions.

Family members who spoke at the meeting described multi-generational ties to the district and broad community support; Kimberly Brown, introduced as Baylor's daughter, told trustees more than 800 people had responded to a community post supporting the name. A representative for Tarrant County Commissioner Roderick Miles Jr. also delivered the commissioner's strong endorsement.

Superintendent McFarlane noted the district's naming policy and community committee review before recommending the Baylor family; the board emphasized that the final authority on facility names rests with the board. Trustee comments during deliberation emphasized honoring local history and representation: "I recommend accepting the recommendation of administration in naming the school after the Baylor family," Trustee June W. Davis said during the motion.

The new elementary school is slated to open this fall in the Bridges neighborhood near Richard J. Alley Middle School. Board materials and public remarks tied the decision to the district's emphasis on community engagement and on teaching students about local heritage.

The board invited Mr. Baylor to address trustees after the vote; he thanked the board and community for the honor. Trustees congratulated the family and said the naming will help preserve and teach the district's history for future students.