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Some community members urge neutral, location-based names such as Maple Grove or Ice Age Trail
Summary
Several teachers, alumni and residents argued for non-person names—Maple Grove Elementary or Ice Age Trail Elementary—saying geographic names foster unity and avoid future controversy. The committee heard both viewpoints and will weigh them during a confidential ranking next week.
At the Aug. 5 renaming committee meeting, some speakers urged the district to choose a neutral, location-based name for Chavez Elementary rather than a person’s name. Jamie Kron, a teacher at Chavez for 24 years, recommended names tied to local geography.
"We believe that it is critical that MMSD stop naming schools after people," Jamie Kron said, proposing "Maple Grove Elementary and Ice Age Trail Elementary" as alternatives tied to the school’s street location and proximity to the Ice Age Trail. Jonathan Farley, a Chavez alumnus, also argued for Maple Grove to reduce the chance of future controversy and to reflect neighborhood history.
Committee members acknowledged the appeal of geographic names alongside strong testimony for a person-based name. Staff said the committee would compile all public comments and proceed to a confidential ranking to determine finalists to forward to the school board.
