Frequently Asked Questions

Who can nominate a name?
Current and former families, students, staff, alumni, neighbors, Tribal partners, community organizations, and members of the broader community may submit nominations.

Is the nomination process a vote?
No. Nominations are used to generate ideas. The number of nominations a name receives does not determine whether it advances.

How will names be evaluated?
Viable names will be reviewed using the same published criteria and Board Policy FF. Required historical, cultural, Tribal, individual-background, and operational due diligence will be completed as applicable.

Who chooses the finalists?
The Renaming Advisory Committee screens viable nominations, oversees required due diligence, and certifies approximately 3–5 finalists for public review.

Will students participate?
Yes. Chávez students will participate through developmentally appropriate activities focused on identity, belonging, values, pride, and hopes for their school. Students will also have a separate age-appropriate preference activity during the final stage.

Who participates in the final preference process?
Current Chávez families and current certified, classified, and administrative staff will participate in the ranked family/staff preference process. Students will participate separately.

Does the final preference survey decide the new name?
No. Preference results are a significant factor in the recommendation, but the process is not a binding election. The Advisory Committee and Superintendent also consider Policy FF, due diligence, student voice, cultural considerations, broad community feedback, and implementation considerations. The Board retains final naming authority.

What happens if concerns are raised about a finalist?
New information raised during community review will be examined through supplemental due diligence before the final preference stage.

What if none of the finalists has sufficient support or a serious concern emerges?
The committee will not force a recommendation. It may narrow the field, conduct a short additional Chávez preference process, or recommend a limited extension, with the next steps communicated publicly.

When will the Board make the final decision?
The current schedule includes Board First Read on December 16, 2026, public testimony and consideration on January 20, 2027, and final Board action on February 3, 2027.

How can I participate if I need language or accessibility support?
The district will provide communications and engagement in English and Spanish and will provide additional language and accessibility support based on community needs. Non-digital participation options will also be available.