Oct. 24, 2017: The Oklahoma City Public Schools Board of Education voted yesterday to move forward with changing the names of three elementary schools originally dedicated to Confederate leaders: Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee, and Isaac Stand Watie.
"As the district begins the input process to determine the names these facilities will bear moving forward," Supt. Aurora Lora said in a statement, "I hope to use it as a teachable moment for our students and to establish a positive image and a sense of pride for these school communities to carry them into the future."
District officials are asking for input from locals for the rededication of these facilities. Following the input process, students will have a chance to weigh in on possible names and then stakeholder committees will review options and make recommendations to the superintendent and school board.
Earlier this year, OKCPS officials announced the expense to change the name of a single facility is approximately $50,000-$75,000.
"The decision to rename any school has significant budgetary implications that must be considered in these challenging budget times;" Lora said in a statement, "however, we hope eventually to ensure that all OKCPS schools have names that reflect our values."
A survey has been set up online to receive input from the public on the new name.
