EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Las Cruces Public Schools has unanimously approved a new name for Cesar Chavez Elementary School during a board meeting on Tuesday, May 19.
The board approved the name Desert Bloom Elementary School. Cesar Chavez Elementary was formally removed on April 21. The new name will be adopted on July 1.
To celebrate the official adoption of the new name, a ceremony will be held at the school on Wednesday, July 1.
As KTSM 9 News previously reported, the discussion of a name change had started on March 24, and the board approved a name change for the school on April 21. This all comes after allegations of sexual assault against the late Farm Workers Union president came up from several women, including the co-founder of the union, Dolores Huerta.
Las Cruces Public School votes to rename Cesar Chavez ES
According to LCPS, several names were suggested through a survey process. Some of the names include Desert Sky Elementary, Desert Sage Elementary, Organ Mountain Elementary and Mountain View Elementary.
“Themes that consistently emerged throughout the feedback process included a strong appreciation for names connected to the region’s desert landscape, neighboring mountains and natural beauty. Participants also expressed support for names that reflect community identity, regional pride and timeless qualities that would remain meaningful for generations of students,” read the press release by LCPS.
Starting on Wednesday, May 20, the district will start rebranding the school, which will include updating signage and replacing accessories around campus that had the previous name.
The school’s mascot, Tito the Coyotito, will remain the same.
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