Name change considered for Robert E. Lee Elementary School in northeast El Paso

EL PASO, Texas -- As controversial monuments, specifically Confederate monuments, are being removed across the country as a response to the death of George Floyd, the possibility of changing one northeast El Paso school name is once again on the table.

El Paso Independent School District trustee Freddy Klayel-Avalos, who represents District 6, tweeted that he is calling on his fellow board members to change Robert E. Lee Elementary School's name permanently.

Robert E. Lee was a commander of the Confederate Army during the Civil War.

Klayel-Avalos told ABC-7 that a concerned constituent reached out to him calling for the name change adding that it was long overdue and Avalos agrees.

"However anyone may interpret it, either positive or negative, the fact that the African American/black community interpret or associate Robert E. Lee's name with oppression is enough for the district to be proactive enough about changing the name," Klayel-Avalos said.

Klayel-Avalos added that even though he cannot speak for the entire board he feels the name change is "imminent."

Back in 2017, the board had previously discussed changing the school's name.

EPISD trustee Diane Dye, who represents the district were the school is located, said she believes her constituents do not want to change the name. When asked how she would vote if it the item was brought to a vote, she said she would vote "no."

"This needs to come from the community it should not come from one board trustee. Unless my constituents want this done, I will vote no."

Klayel-Avalos told ABC-7 he has discussed the topic with EPISD Superintendent Juan Cabrera and the topic will likely be added to the June 16 board meeting agenda. Klayel-Avalos is encouraging constituents to sign up for public comment for that meeting.