6970P2 - Naming of School Facilities

 

The Issaquah School District recognizes that school facilities such as athletic fields, gymnasiums, performing arts spaces, and other physical spaces on established school campuses may warrant naming to honor individuals, reflect the character of the community, or recognize significant contributions to the school district.

 

Initiation of Naming Request

A request to name or rename a school facility (or portion of a facility) may be initiated by any individual or group, including students, staff, alumni, parents, or community members. The request must be submitted in writing to the Building Principal of the site where the facility is located and must include:

• The proposed name for the facility.
• A rationale for the proposed name, including the individual’s or group’s connection to the school or district.
• Evidence of broad community support (e.g., letters of support, endorsements, etc.).
• Any additional relevant historical or contextual information.

 

A. Building-Level Review

The Building Principal shall review the request and consult with site-based leadership teams, Asb leadership, staff, and relevant advisory committees, as appropriate. The principal will forward the request, with a summary of site input and a recommendation to the District Athletics and Activities Director.

 

B. District-Level Review

The Athletic and Activities Department will convene a review team to evaluate the request. This team shall include:

• Building Principal
• District Athletics and Activities Director
• Director of Capital Projects
• Chief Financial Officer or designee
• Executive Director of Operations or designee
• Executive Director(s) of Elementary or Secondary Education
• Superintendent or designee

 

The review team will consider the following criteria:

• Alignment with the District’s mission, vision, and equity commitments.
• The individual’s or group’s contributions to the school or district.
• Historical or cultural significance of the name.
• Impacts on signage, maintenance, and associated costs.

 

C. Superintendent Recommendation

Based on the district-level review, the Superintendent will make a recommendation to the School Board for final approval. If the Superintendent does not support the proposal, the originator of the request will be notified in writing.

 

D. School Board Action

The School Board shall have final authority to approve or deny the naming of school facilities. Action shall take place at a regularly scheduled board meeting.

 

E. Implementation

If approved by the Board, the Athletics and Activities Office will coordinate with the appropriate departments (e.g., Capital Projects, Communications, Business Office) to implement:

• Signage and labeling
• Public communication of the naming decision
• Recognition or dedication ceremony, if appropriate

 

F. Naming Guidelines

• Names should reflect the values of the Issaquah School District, including equity, inclusion, service, and educational excellence
• .Individuals honored must have made substantial and lasting contributions to the school, district, or broader community.
• Current employees are generally not eligible unless an exception is granted by the Superintendent and approved by the Board.
• Names reflecting commercial interests are prohibited unless reviewed and approved through a separate policy or process.