Board opens 30‑day public comment on revised facilities‑naming policy allowing living honorees
Summary
The board reviewed a facilities‑naming policy last updated in 2009 and endorsed proposed changes to permit naming facilities or parts of them for living individuals who meet integrity and service criteria; the proposal will be posted for 30 days of public comment.
Dr. Josh Lowe presented a review of the district’s facilities‑naming policy (last reviewed in 2009) and proposed revisions to give the board more flexibility in recognizing individuals and places.
Under the proposed guidelines presented to the board on Dec. 9, facilities or portions of facilities may be named for individuals, including living persons, provided the person has demonstrated long‑term service, made significant contributions to the community and positively impacted the school system. The draft language emphasizes that honorees should “represent highest standards of integrity, character, and service.”
Lowe and staff proposed qualifiers designed to reduce conflicts of interest: nominees who currently hold elected office would not normally be eligible, and employees of the school system would not be considered until five years after retirement or departure. Lowe said the board retains final authority to name or to reconsider a naming decision.
Board members said the draft provides needed flexibility while preserving guardrails; the board agreed to open the proposal for a 30‑day public comment period.
No final naming decisions were made at the meeting; the policy will be available for public comment for 30 days before further board action.
