AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Independent School District board voted Monday night to begin the renaming process for five of its campuses with confederate ties.
AISD will rename:
- Eastside Memorial Early College High School at the Johnston Campus, named after Confederate General Albert Johnson
- Zachary Taylor Fulmore Middle School, named after Confederate Private Zachary Fulmore
- Sydney Lanier Early College High School, named after Confederate soldier Sidney Lanier
- John T. Allan Facility, named after Confederate army officer John T. Allan
- John H. Reagan Early College High School, named after Confederate postmaster general John H. Reagan
On Tuesday, the district will begin what they call the "official kickoff" of the renaming process, which includes an online push and announcement of the open name nomination form.
The schools were named after confederate military members for their service, outraging some parents and community members.
To some, this conversation is an opportunity to learn more about the history of Austin and its diverse community. To others, the names served as relics of the past from a time that lacked inclusion and diversity.
"It doesn't replace history, but it does take away a very symbolic gesture that was placed there decades ago," said AISD board member Yasmin Wagner.