Chavez Elementary School Naming Process
Citizens' Naming Committee — Public Engagement Portal
Welcome to the public participation form for the MMSD School Renaming Process. The Citizens' Naming Committee values community input as we look over name suggestions for our school buildings.
You can use this form to register to speak live at an upcoming virtual meeting or submit written comments directly to the committee.
Watch the Public Hearing for Chávez Elementary School
Final List for Public Hearing
**= Being considered for two schools
***=Being considered for all three schools
- ***Ada Deer Elementary School
- Anita Herrera Elementary School
- Bruce Dahmen Elementary School
- **DeJope Elementary School
- Electa Quinney Elementary School
- Four Lakes Elementary School
- ***Gaylord Nelson Elementary School
- **Harriet Tubman Elementary School
- Hoiperes Elementary School
- Ice Age Trail Elementary School
- ***Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Elementary School
- **Lucia Nuñez Elementary School
- Maple Grove Elementary School
- Roberto G. Sanchez Elementary School
- **Shirley Abrahamson Elementary School
- Solidaridad "Sol" Elementary School
***Ada Deer Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Jenny Pilling, Winona Storms & Mary Pilling-Engberts
Q. What is the proposed name?
Ada Deer Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): Renowned Ho-Chunk Nation advocate, scholar, and the first woman to chair the Ho-Chunk Nation and serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs. Highly significant to Wisconsin.
Research Context
Legendary Menominee leader who led the fight to reverse the Menominee termination policy and served as the first Native American woman to head the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Anita Herrera Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Erin Anderson
Q. What is the proposed name?
Anita Herrera Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Figure (Decreased): Pioneering Latina teacher and civil rights activist who dedicated her life to improving Wisconsin education, equity, and migrant worker community outreach.
Research Context
Trailblazing Wisconsin educator and equity advocate who dedicated her career to enhancing migrant worker community outreach, intercultural education, and state equity policies.
Bruce Dahmen Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Chris Stoner
Q. What is the proposed name?
Bruce Dahmen Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Beloved local educator and long-standing former principal of Madison's Memorial High School.
Research Context
Deeply beloved local educator who spent four decades with the Madison Memorial High School community, widely respected for his compassionate leadership and youth mentorship.
**DeJope Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Mary Eilleen Hayes
Q. What is the proposed name?
Dejope Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Uses the traditional Ho-Chunk term ("Dejope" for Four Lakes) honoring the Indigenous history and sacred land of Madison.
Research Context
Ancestral Ho-Chunk name for the Madison region, translating to "Four Lakes." Honors the historical and ongoing sovereign presence of the Ho-Chunk Nation.
Electa Quinney Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Kevin C. Attaway & Stephanie Lozano
Q. What is the proposed name?
Electa Quinney Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): A member of the Stockbridge-Munsee Nation who made history as the very first public school teacher in the Wisconsin Territory.
Research Context
A member of the Stockbridge- Munesee Mohican nation celebrated as WI's first public school teacher, establishing a tuition-free school in 1828.
Four Lakes Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Judy
Q. What is the proposed name?
Four Lakes Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References the geographical identity of the Madison area, anchoring the school to local natural features.
Research Context
Direct descriptive reference to the core Yahara lake chain (Mendota, Monona, Waubesa, Kegonsa) that geographically outlines and defines the greater Dane County.
***Gaylord Nelson Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Claudia Hansen
Q. What is the proposed name?
Gaylord Nelson Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): Renowned Wisconsin Governor, U.S. Senator, and the visionary founder of Earth Day, matching the district's environmental stewardship values.
Research Context
Former Wisconsin Governor, U.S. Senator, and the visionary founder of Earth Day (1970), solidifying WI as a pioneer in environmental conservation.
**Harriet Tubman Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Navdeep Bamrah
Q. What is the proposed name?
Harriet Tubman Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent National Figure (Deceased): Iconic American abolitionist, humanitarian, and Underground Railroad conductor whose legacy represents freedom and unmatched bravery.
Research Context
Renowned American abolitionist, humanitarian and Underground Railroad conductor who led dozens to freedom. Aligns with civic virtues of courage.
Hoiperes Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Elizabeth Pleuss
Q. What is the proposed name?
Hoiperes Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Employs the Ho-Chunk word for "knowledge," directly marrying the core educational objective of MMSD with regional Indigenous languages.
Research Context
Integrates indigenous language tracking, utilizing the Ho-Chunk term for "knowledge" to reinforce foundational academic excellence alongside native heritage.
Ice Age Trail Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Jamie Krohn -Chavez First Grade Teacher and Former Chavez parent and current MMSD parent, Richard and Owen Wells & Lisa Maier
Q. What is the proposed name?
Ice Age Trail Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site: Tied to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that winds through the neighborhood boundary, offering rich opportunities for geological and ecological studies.
Research Context
Targeted structural identifier mapping the campus directly to the neighboring Ice Age National Scenic Trail corridors that wind through the area.
***Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Lee M Briggs
Q. What is the proposed name?
Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Iconic Madison disability rights advocate and civic activist. His legacy is permanently honored by the city through the Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Civility in Public Discourse Award.
Research Context
Dedicated resident and fierce disability rights advocate. Chaired the Madison Commission on People with Disabilities (and famously appeared on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood).
**Lucia Nuñez Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Erin Nunez
Q. What is the proposed name?
Lucia Nuñez Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Celebrated Madison civil rights leader, former Director of Centro Hispano, and head of the City of Madison Department of Civil Rights, who championed marginalized, immigrant, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Research Context
A champion for civil rights in Madison. She served as the Director of the City of Madison Department of Civil Rights and was a tireless advocate for equity.
Maple Grove Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
- Chavez Staff x2
- Erica
- Kristin Remiker
- Joe Ketarkus
- Jen Dillman
- Stephanie Watrud
- Reg Ed Teacher with MMSD
- Mandy Petree
- Michelle Slawny
- Karen Schmidt
- Susan Slattery
- Sarah Adams
- Michael Harris
- Tiffany Theisen
- Jamie Krohn- Chavez First Grade Teacher
- Former Chavez parent and current MMSD parent
- Josh Reineking
- Jonathan Farley
- Claudia Hansen
- Becky Sorensen
- Dawn Harper
- Vicki Martin
- Larry Martin
- Ellen Fisher
- Nancy Rudolph
- Nick Czerwinski
- Ethan Ewoldt
- Bill Maybury
- Matt Suing
- Brynne DeNeen
- Harold Gollman
- Teresa Nelson
- Gordy Disch
- Julie Padley
- Jennifer Harper
- Tim Jensen
- Stacy Tobin
- Amy Maybury
- Erin Johnson
- Mary Hansen
- Linda Grimmer
- Deb Disch
- Anne Larson
- Stacy Smith-Buckley
- Conrad & JoAnn Stein
- Elizabeth Urban
- Santhosh Raikar
- Andrew Sudhoff
- Cynthia Hasz
- Whitney Cook
- Peggy Kalscheur
- Victoria Carey
- Andrew Gonzales
- Donatelli family
- Ryan Frett
- Chris Babal
- Jess Babal
- 4K teacher
- Andrea vogel
- Abby Biddick
- Sandra Loftus
- Chanel Scheller
- Caitlin Lodahl
- Alex
- Derek Schaefer
- Cassidy F
- Maya Stegner
- Connor Fitzgerald
- Elizabeth K Glaaser
- Kari L Carden
- Dryden Schaefer
- Rebecca Runo
Q. What is the proposed name?
Maple Grove Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Capitalizes on the school's location on Maple Grove Drive, providing landmark clarity and neutrality.
Research context
Highly precise micro-location placement anchoring the campus to adjacent thoroughfares while ensuring absolute administrative neutrality.
Roberto G. Sanchez Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
- Friends of Sanchez Scholars
- Javiera Derks
- Daniel Alurralde
- Centro of Dane County
- Rachel Rosin
- Stephanie Moreno
- Kind Lesli Ann Ambassadors
- Gerardo Mancilla, Ph.D.
- Barbara Schultz-Becker
- Friends of Sanchez
- Aissa Olivarez
- Erin McGrath
- Karen Pérez-Wilson
Q. What is the proposed name?
Roberto G. Sanchez Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): A beloved UW-Madison professor who established the Roberto G. Sánchez Educational Opportunity Fund (Sánchez Scholars), supporting and mentoring first-generation bilingual Madison students for decades.
Research Context
Distinguished language scholar who created the Roberto G. Sánchez Educational Opportunity Fund, providing continuous mentorship and scholarships to first-generation students.
**Shirley Abrahamson Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Betsy Abramson
Q. What is the proposed name?
Shirley Abrahamson Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): Trailblazing jurist who served as the first female justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court and its longest-serving Chief Justice.
Research Context
Legal trailblazer who served as the first female justice and longest-serving Chief Justice on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, widely respected for her immense legal intellect.
Solidaridad "Sol" Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Gilberto Bravo
Q. What is the proposed name?
Solidaridad "Sol" Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: "Solidaridad" translates to Solidarity in Spanish. It honors cross-racial coalitions within the historic farmworker movement and seamlessly complements the school’s current Dual Language Immersion (DLI) curriculum.
Research Context
High-value concept matching the school's Dual Language Immersion (DLI) focus, honoring historic workforce coalitions while translating to "Solidarity."
Meeting Notice
Ad Hoc Committee meeting dates/times, agendas and minutes are published on BoardDocs.
View meeting agendas and notices
Meetings are also broadcast on the Board of Education's YouTube channel.
Public Appearance & Comment Submission Form
Official Notice & Speaking Limits
- Time Limit: Live speakers will have up to 3 minutes to address the committee. Extensions require approval from the board or committee chair.
- Deadlines: Registration closes exactly when the meeting is called to order. Speaking slots after this point are left entirely to the discretion of the Chairperson.
- Recording Disclaimer: All committee meetings are virtual recorded sessions streamed to the public. By registering to speak live, you acknowledge and agree to be recorded.
Directions: How to Share Your Input
Please read the following rules carefully before filling out the form below to ensure your comment is received and processed correctly:
Step 1: Choose Your School
Step 2: Pick Your Participation Style
- To Speak Live: Select "Wish to speak." You must submit this form at least 15 minutes before a regular committee meeting or 30 minutes before an official public hearing. You will receive a Zoom link via email.
- To Submit Written Notes Only: Select "Do not wish to speak" and type your thoughts into the comments box.
Step 3: Keep Student Data Safe
Need Help or Looking for Meeting Schedules?
- To view the upcoming meeting calendar, agendas, or past video records, please visit our MMSD Board of Education Meetings website.
- If you have technical issues using this form, please contact the District Support Staff at cltubbs@madison.k12.wi.us and rmamundson@madison.k12.wi.us
- Timeline
- Board Policy 6700
- Board of Education Role
- Ad Hoc Committee Members
- Board Meetings/Documents
- Full Submissions List
- Background and Outcomes
- Local Coverage of MMSD Renamings
Timeline
| Date | Meeting/Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| April 27, 2026 | Board of Education Regular Meeting | Board receives a proposal to rename an existing building |
| April 29, 2026 |
1. Board officers & Superintendent determine when Board will take up the name 2. 30-day period starts when names or comments can be received from the public |
|
|
May 30, 2026 |
1. Ask for each Board Member to recommend up to 5 names for the Citizens Naming Committee. |
|
| May 31, 2026 |
1. First day to submit public comment 2. Prepare & publicize the list of the proposed names. |
|
|
June 27, 2026 |
1. Last day to submit comments from public 2. Prepare & publicize the list of the proposed names; review each proposal; conduct research; provide list & research to Citizens Naming Committee; Call the first meeting of the Citizens Naming Committee |
|
| June 29th | Chair Prep Meeting 3 | |
| July 1st | Chavez Meeting 1 | |
| July 8th | District Holiday Dark Week — Progress Suspended | |
| July 13th | Chair Prep Meeting 4 | |
| July 15th | Chavez Meeting 2 | |
| July 20th | Scoring Submission Deadline; Chair Prep Meeting 5 | |
| July 22th | Chavez Meeting 3 | |
| July 23rd | Proposed Names List Published | |
| July 27th | Chair Prep Meeting 6 | |
| July 30th | Formal Policy Public Hearing | |
| August 3rd | Chair Prep Meeting 7 | |
| August 10th | Chair Prep Meeting 8 | |
| August 13th | Chavez Meeting 5 | |
| August 20th | Final Recommended Packet Due to Board | |
| August 20th | Board Operations Review | |
| August 24th | Final Board Approval Vote |
As meetings and process items are confirmed, they will be added to this list for easy reference.
Board Policy 6700
Board Policy 6700
Below is an illustrative graphic followed by a narrative outlining the details of the process.

Download this process flowchart as a PDF.
Board of Education Role
Board of Education Role and Ad Hoc Committee
The Board of Education will established a 12-member ad hoc committee composed of community members. These members are recommended by Board of Education members. The chairperson for the committee is then designated by the Board President. Once the proposals are gathered, this committee will then begin its work in accordance with the policy.
Below is a more detailed description of the role of the Board of Education in this process:
-
Appoint a Citizens Naming Committee. The Citizens Naming Committee shall consist of twelve individuals and a chairperson appointed by the Board President and approved by the BOARD OF EDUCATION. Each Board Member may recommend up to five names to serve on the Committee, and the Board President shall select Committee members from these names. The BOARD OF EDUCATION shall strive to ensure that the Citizens Naming Committee is representative of the District as a whole.
-
The chairperson will be selected by the President of the BOARD OF EDUCATION.
-
Establish a date by which the work of the Citizens Naming Committee must be completed.
Ad Hoc Committee Members
Citizens' Ad Hoc Committee Membership List
The Board of Education will establish an ad hoc committee composed of community members. These members are recommended by Board of Education members. The chairperson for the committee is then designated by the Board President.
Committee Chair: Yanette Figueroa Cole
Committee Members:
- Besa Asani
- Vanessa Cene Shelton
- Dr. Karen Menendez Coller
- Jully Davila
- Jamal Jones
- Heather Kalscheur
- Nate Kirley
- Bobby Naramore
- Hector Valdivia
- Stephanie Fredrickson
- Jenni Naramore
Alternates:
- Christina Anhalt-Neath
Board Meetings/Documents
Full Submissions List
Submissions
On behalf of the Madison Metropolitan School District, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the community for the thoughtful naming submissions received during the recent proposal period. Your engagement is vital in ensuring our school names reflect the history, values, and identity of our community.
The accompanying table provides an alphabetized list of naming proposals for Chavez Elementary School. To ensure transparency and adherence to District standards, each submission has been carefully evaluated against the established MMSD Naming Criteria:
- Prominent national or local figures (must be deceased).
- Locally significant geographical sites.
- Places of local significance.
- Ideas or concepts representing broadly respected community values.
Please note that in alignment with these standards and professional conduct policies, any submissions that were found to be profane, inappropriate, or nonsensical relative to the required criteria have been removed from this process.
We thank you for your continued partnership as we move forward in this collaborative process to honor the legacy and future of our schools.
Proposed Names
- Ada Deer Elementary School
- Alice Paul Elementary School
- Andrés Bello Elementary School
- Anita Herrera Elementary School
- Artemis 2 Elementary School
- Badger Land Elementary School
- Bell Hooks Elementary School
- Black Bear Elementary School
- Bruce Dahmen Elementary School
- Capital Elementary School
- Country Grove Elementary School
- Cross Country Area Elementary School
- Dejope Elementary School
- Driftless Area Elementary School
- East Elementary School
- Electa Quinney Elementary School
- Flamingo Elementary School
- Four Freedoms Elementary School
- Four Lakes Elementary School
- Francis D. Hole Elementary School
- Frank Lloyd Wright Elementary School
- Gaylord Nelson Elementary School
- Glacial Ridge Elementary School
- Glacier Ridge Elementary School
- Global Citizens Elementary School
- Gloria Jean Watkins Elementary School
- Green Pathways Elementary School
- Harriet Tubman Elementary School
- Henry and Selma Maurer Elementary School
- Hoiperes Elementary School
- Ice Age Elementary School
- Ice Age Trail Elementary School
- Integrity Elementary School
- Isthmus Elementary School
- Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Elementary School
- Jimmy Carter Elementary School
- Juán José López Elementary School
- Justice Elementary School
- Justice Song Elementary School
- Karl Paul Link Elementary School
- Lake City Elementary School
- Leon Vargian Elementary School
- Lucia Nuñez Elementary School
- Madison Prairie Elementary School
- Mammoth Elementary School
- Maple Grove Elementary School
- Maple Grove Mariposas Elementary School
- Maple Prairie Elementary School
- Maria G Banuelos Elementary School
- Maurer School Elementary School
- Meissen Family Elementary School
- Mill Creek Elementary School
- Mother Earth Elementary School
- Nelson Elementary Elementary School
- New Horizons Elementary School
- Olbrich Elementary School
- Oscar Mayer Elementary School
- Otis Redding Elementary School
- Otto Breitenbach Elementary School
- Peter Munoz Elementary School
- Pinagigi Elementary School
- Red Oak Elementary School
- Roberto G. Sanchez Elementary School
- Robin Elementary School
- Rolling Hills Elementary School
- Sandhill Crane Elementary School
- Shirley Abrahamson Elementary School
- Solidaridad "Sol" Elementary School
- Stone Creek Elementary School
- Stone Meadows Elementary School
- Sugar Maple Elementary School
- Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School
- United Elementary School
- Violet Elementary School
- Westside Elementary School
- Wood Violet Elementary School
Ada Deer Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Jenny Pilling, Winona Storms & Mary Pilling-Engberts
Q. What is the proposed name?
Ada Deer Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): Renowned Ho-Chunk Nation advocate, scholar, and the first woman to chair the Ho-Chunk Nation and serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs. Highly significant to Wisconsin.
Alice Paul Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Mendy Dorris
Q. What is the proposed name?
Alice Paul Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?Prominent National Figure (Deceased): Celebrated American suffragist, feminist, and women's rights activist who led the campaign for the 19th Amendment.
Andrés Bello Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Mendy Dorris
Q. What is the proposed name?
Alice Paul Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?Prominent National Figure (Deceased): Celebrated American suffragist, feminist, and women's rights activist who led the campaign for the 19th Amendment.
Anita Herrera Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Erin Anderson
Q. What is the proposed name?
Anita Herrera Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Figure (Decreased): Pioneering Latina teacher and civil rights activist who dedicated her life to improving Wisconsin education, equity, and migrant worker community outreach.
Artemis 2 Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Mark Roffers
Q. What is the proposed name?
Artemis 2 Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Named after NASA's lunar exploration mission, symbolizing forward-looking STEM innovation, scientific exploration, and human potential.
Badger Land Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Beverly Seichter
Q. What is the proposed name?
Badger Land Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References Wisconsin’s state identity and geographic region.
Bell Hooks Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Melea Carvlin
Q. What is the proposed name?
Bell Hooks Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent National Figure (Deceased): Acclaimed feminist author, educator, and activist who attended UW-Madison and is honored on the Memorial Union alumni walk.
Black Bear Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Josh Mercier on Behalf of the Burr Oaks Neighborhood
Q. What is the proposed name?
Black Bear Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Uses native Wisconsin wildlife to create a neutral, nature-centered school pride.
Bruce Dahmen Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Chris Stoner
Q. What is the proposed name?
Bruce Dahmen Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Beloved local educator and long-standing former principal of Madison's Memorial High School.
Capital Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
David Harpet
Q. What is the proposed name?
Capital Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Direct, non-person geographical label reflecting Madison's status as the state capital.
Country Grove Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Tom Neuser & Nick Bubb
Q. What is the proposed name?
Country Grove Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References a neighboring residential development or physical layout within the school’s broader community.
Cross Country Area Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Diane Wadzinsi & Jessica Dingee
Q. What is the proposed name?
Cross Country Area Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References a prominent regional thoroughfare and local landmark corridor close to the school's boundaries.
Dejope Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Mary Eilleen Hayes
Q. What is the proposed name?
Dejope Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Uses the traditional Ho-Chunk term ("Dejope" for Four Lakes) honoring the Indigenous history and sacred land of Madison.
Driftless Area Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Emily D Kite & Curtis Jones
Q. What is the proposed name?
Driftless Area Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site: Celebrates the unique, unglaciated geological topography of southwestern Wisconsin, supporting localized earth science curricula.
East Elementary School
Electa Quinney Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Kevin C. Attaway & Stephanie Lozano
Q. What is the proposed name?
Electa Quinney Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): A member of the Stockbridge-Munsee Nation who made history as the very first public school teacher in the Wisconsin Territory.
Flamingo Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Nate Kirley
Q. What is the proposed name?
Flamingo Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Fosters lighthearted local historical connections based on Madison's plastic flamingo tradition.
Four Freedoms Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Juliet Page
Q. What is the proposed name?
Four Freedoms Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Commemorates fundamental human rights (speech, worship, want, fear), serving as a foundational civic virtue.
Four Lakes Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Judy
Q. What is the proposed name?
Four Lakes Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References the geographical identity of the Madison area, anchoring the school to local natural features.
Francis D. Hole Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Inna Popova
Q. What is the proposed name?
Francis D. Hole Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Acclaimed UW-Madison professor of soil science, geologist, and activist who famously led the campaign to establish the Antigo silt loam as Wisconsin’s official state soil.
Frank Lloyd Wright Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Inna Popova
Q. What is the proposed name?
Frank Lloyd Wright Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Acclaimed UW-Madison professor of soil science, geologist, and activist who famously led the campaign to establish the Antigo silt loam as Wisconsin’s official state soil.
Gaylord Nelson Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Claudia Hansen
Q. What is the proposed name?
Gaylord Nelson Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): Renowned Wisconsin Governor, U.S. Senator, and the visionary founder of Earth Day, matching the district's environmental stewardship values.
Glacial Ridge Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Andrew Gonzales
Q. What is the proposed name?
Glacial Ridge Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site: Tied to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and glacial topography that winds through the neighborhood boundary.
Glacier Ridge Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
David McHugh, Teresa Cousins, Hamway Family and Robin Alden
Q. What is the proposed name?
Glacier Ridge Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site: Tied to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and glacial topography that winds through the neighborhood boundary.
Global Citizens Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Mirella C Vitrano
Q. What is the proposed name?
Global Citizens Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Focuses on cross-cultural awareness, inclusivity, and interconnected educational spaces.
Gloria Jean Watkins Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Melea Carvlin
Q. What is the proposed name?
Gloria Jean Watkins Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent National Figure (Deceased): Acclaimed feminist author, educator, and activist who attended UW-Madison and is honored (as bell hooks) on the Memorial Union alumni walk.
Green Pathways Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Winona Storms
Q. What is the proposed name?
Green Pathways Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Highlights civic virtues focused on environmental awareness, sustainability, and community action.
Harriet Tubman Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Navdeep Bamrah
Q. What is the proposed name?
Harriet Tubman Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent National Figure (Deceased): Iconic American abolitionist, humanitarian, and Underground Railroad conductor whose legacy represents freedom and unmatched bravery.
Henry and Selma Maurer Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Linda E. Gerke
Q. What is the proposed name?
Henry and Selma Maurer Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figures (Deceased): Honors a local family legacy with deep historical ties to regional land development, education, or community service.
Hoiperes Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Elizabeth Pleuss
Q. What is the proposed name?
Hoiperes Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Employs the Ho-Chunk word for "knowledge," directly marrying the core educational objective of MMSD with regional Indigenous languages.
Ice Age Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Shannon Kelly, Erin Rome, Lindsey Immig, Erin Sromalski, Wade Farnham, Jacob Rome - Parent of two current Chavez students (K and 2nd), Jennifer Egan, Michael Mores
Q. What is the proposed name?
Ice Age Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site: Tied to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that winds through the neighborhood boundary, offering rich opportunities for geological and ecological studies.
Ice Age Trail Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Jamie Krohn -Chavez First Grade Teacher and Former Chavez parent and current MMSD parent, Richard and Owen Wells & Lisa Maier
Q. What is the proposed name?
Ice Age Trail Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site: Tied to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that winds through the neighborhood boundary, offering rich opportunities for geological and ecological studies.
Integrity Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
T. Layne
Q. What is the proposed name?
Integrity Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Highlights a baseline civic virtue focused on moral character and public accountability.
Isthmus Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Marlena Holden
Q. What is the proposed name?
Isthmus Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Direct, non-person geographical label reflecting Madison's unique natural geography.
Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Lee M Briggs
Q. What is the proposed name?
Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Iconic Madison disability rights advocate and civic activist. His legacy is permanently honored by the city through the Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Civility in Public Discourse Award.
Jimmy Carter Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Sam Eckels
Q. What is the proposed name?
Jimmy Carter Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent National Figure (Deceased): Former U.S. President and humanitarian leader. Because he is currently living, this requires a specific Board Policy exception.
Juán José López Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Toriana Pettaway
Q. What is the proposed name?
Juán José López Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Highly respected local Madison leader, a founder of the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Dane County, and an advocate for Latinx workforce development and community equity.
Justice Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Sam Buscemi
Q. What is the proposed name?
Justice Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Centers a foundational civic virtue and universal value system promoted by public education.
Justice Song Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Winona Storms
Q. What is the proposed name?
Justice Song Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Centers a foundational civic virtue and universal value system promoted by public education.
Karl Paul Link Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Parent
Q. What is the proposed name?
Karl Paul Link Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): Notable UW-Madison scientist who discovered Warfarin, linking Madison directly to global medical innovation and Wisconsin agricultural history.
Lake City Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Marlena Holden
Q. What is the proposed name?
Lake City Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Direct, non-person geographic label reflecting Madison's layout and city identity.
Leon Vargian Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Karl Bryan
Q. What is the proposed name?
Leon Vargian Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Beloved Madison civic character, math teacher, and co-founder of the Pail & Shovel Party (famous for the Union Terrace flamingos and the Statue of Liberty on Lake Mendota).
Lucia Nuñez Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Erin Nunez
Q. What is the proposed name?
Lucia Nuñez Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Celebrated Madison civil rights leader, former Director of Centro Hispano, and head of the City of Madison Department of Civil Rights, who championed marginalized, immigrant, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Madison Prairie Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Foth Family
Q. What is the proposed name?
Madison Prairie Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References regional prairie ecosystems, connecting the school identity to natural Wisconsin landscapes.
Mammoth Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Anne Larson
Q. What is the proposed name?
Mammoth Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Fosters historical natural connections to prehistoric Ice Age mammoths linked to the local trail geography.
Maple Grove Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
- Chavez Staff x2
- Erica
- Kristin Remiker
- Joe Ketarkus
- Jen Dillman
- Stephanie Watrud
- Reg Ed Teacher with MMSD
- Mandy Petree
- Michelle Slawny
- Karen Schmidt
- Susan Slattery
- Sarah Adams
- Michael Harris
- Tiffany Theisen
- Jamie Krohn- Chavez First Grade Teacher
- Former Chavez parent and current MMSD parent
- Josh Reineking
- Jonathan Farley
- Claudia Hansen
- Becky Sorensen
- Dawn Harper
- Vicki Martin
- Larry Martin
- Ellen Fisher
- Nancy Rudolph
- Nick Czerwinski
- Ethan Ewoldt
- Bill Maybury
- Matt Suing
- Brynne DeNeen
- Harold Gollman
- Teresa Nelson
- Gordy Disch
- Julie Padley
- Jennifer Harper
- Tim Jensen
- Stacy Tobin
- Amy Maybury
- Erin Johnson
- Mary Hansen
- Linda Grimmer
- Deb Disch
- Anne Larson
- Stacy Smith-Buckley
- Conrad & JoAnn Stein
- Elizabeth Urban
- Santhosh Raikar
- Andrew Sudhoff
- Cynthia Hasz
- Whitney Cook
- Peggy Kalscheur
- Victoria Carey
- Andrew Gonzales
- Donatelli family
- Ryan Frett
- Chris Babal
- Jess Babal
- 4K teacher
- Andrea vogel
- Abby Biddick
- Sandra Loftus
- Chanel Scheller
- Caitlin Lodahl
- Alex
- Derek Schaefer
- Cassidy F
- Maya Stegner
- Connor Fitzgerald
- Elizabeth K Glaaser
- Kari L Carden
- Dryden Schaefer
- Rebecca Runo
Q. What is the proposed name?
Maple Grove Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Capitalizes on the school's location on Maple Grove Drive, providing landmark clarity and neutrality.
Maple Grove Mariposas Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Teachers at Chavez
Q. What is the proposed name?
Maple Grove Mariposas Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Capitalizes on the school's location on Maple Grove Drive while utilizing "Mariposas" (butterflies) as a mascot concept to maintain Hispanic community representation.
Maple Prairie Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Patty Adolphs
Q. What is the proposed name?
Maple Prairie Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References regional prairie ecosystems and native maple trees, creating a neutral place-based name.
Maria G Banuelos Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Toriana Pettaway
Q. What is the proposed name?
Maria G Banuelos Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Highly respected local educator and dedicated bilingual community worker who championed early childhood development and family outreach across Madison.
Maurer School Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Linda E. Gerke
Q. What is the proposed name?
Maurer School Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figures (Deceased): Honors a local family legacy with deep historical ties to regional land development, education, or community service.
Meissen Family Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Jessica Stilwell
Q. What is the proposed name?
Meissen Family Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figures (Deceased): Commemorates a multi-generational family of beloved, impactful Madison-area public school educators.
Mill Creek Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Peggy Kalscheur
Q. What is the proposed name?
Mill Creek Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Direct, neutral place-based label connecting the school identity to local natural geography.
Mother Earth Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Magdalena Bañuelos-Jones
Q. What is the proposed name?
Mother Earth Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Focuses on a universal respect for environmental sciences and nature conservation.
Nelson Elementary Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Claudia Hansen
Q. What is the proposed name?
Nelson Elementary Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): Renowned Wisconsin Governor, U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson, and the visionary founder of Earth Day.
New Horizons Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Claire Freeman
Q. What is the proposed name?
New Horizons Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Aspirational identifier focused on future potential and educational advancement.
Olbrich Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Briana Brazzel
Q. What is the proposed name?
Olbrich Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References local ecological beauty and civic presence, modeled after Madison's Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
Oscar Mayer Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Larry Mani
Q. What is the proposed name?
Oscar Mayer Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Prominent industrialist whose historic manufacturing presence played a foundational role in Madison's 20th-century economic development.
Otis Redding Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Daniel Walkner
Q. What is the proposed name?
Otis Redding Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent National Figure (Deceased): Legendary soul musician who tragically passed away in Madison (Lake Monona) in 1967. Fulfills a unique local geographic tie despite lacking a direct school district lineage.
Otto Breitenbach Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
John Zwickey
Q. What is the proposed name?
Otto Breitenbach Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Beloved Madison civic character, math teacher, and co-founder of the Pail & Shovel Party (famous for the Union Terrace flamingos and the Statue of Liberty on Lake Mendota).
Peter Munoz Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Toriana Pettaway
Q. What is the proposed name?
Peter Munoz Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): Dedicated Madison community leader, activist, and longtime director of the United Way of Dane County, known for housing and equity initiatives.
Pinagigi Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Andi Farladzhov
Q. What is the proposed name?
Pinagigi Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Uses the Ho-Chunk term for thank you/gratitude, promoting a foundational community value while honoring regional Indigenous language.
Red Oak Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Kate Stroede
Q. What is the proposed name?
Red Oak Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: Commemorates the ancient, historic wood archeologists recovered from ancient dugout canoes preserved at the bottom of Lake Mendota.
Roberto G. Sanchez Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
- Friends of Sanchez Scholars
- Javiera Derks
- Daniel Alurralde
- Centro of Dane County
- Rachel Rosin
- Stephanie Moreno
- Kind Lesli Ann Ambassadors
- Gerardo Mancilla, Ph.D.
- Barbara Schultz-Becker
- Friends of Sanchez
- Aissa Olivarez
- Erin McGrath
- Karen Pérez-Wilson
Q. What is the proposed name?
Roberto G. Sanchez Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local Figure (Deceased): A beloved UW-Madison professor who established the Roberto G. Sánchez Educational Opportunity Fund (Sánchez Scholars), supporting and mentoring first-generation bilingual Madison students for decades.
Robin Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Marlena Holden
Q. What is the proposed name?
Robin Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Uses the Wisconsin state bird to establish a neutral, nature-centered school pride.
Rolling Hills Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Mary Erickson
Q. What is the proposed name?
Rolling Hills Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References the physical landscape layouts found within the school’s broader community feeding zone.
Sandhill Crane Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Steve Long
Q. What is the proposed name?
Sandhill Crane Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Uses native Wisconsin wildlife to establish a neutral, nature-focused school identity.
Shirley Abrahamson Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Betsy Abramson
Q. What is the proposed name?
Shirley Abrahamson Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Prominent Local/National Figure (Deceased): Trailblazing jurist who served as the first female justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court and its longest-serving Chief Justice.
Solidaridad "Sol" Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Gilberto Bravo
Q. What is the proposed name?
Solidaridad "Sol" Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: "Solidaridad" translates to Solidarity in Spanish. It honors cross-racial coalitions within the historic farmworker movement and seamlessly complements the school’s current Dual Language Immersion (DLI) curriculum.
Stone Creek Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Carol Hanke
Q. What is the proposed name?
Stone Creek Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References a neighboring residential development or natural feature within the school’s broader community feeding zone.
Stone Meadows Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Wendy Cuevas
Q. What is the proposed name?
Stone Creek Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References a neighboring residential development or natural feature within the school’s broader community feeding zone.
Sugar Maple Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Marlena Holden
Q. What is the proposed name?
Sugar Maple Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Locally Significant Geographical Site / Place of Local Significance: References Wisconsin's state tree and honors local Ho-Chunk preservation and syruping traditions.
Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School
United Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
E. Vasquez
Q. What is the proposed name?
United Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Focuses entirely on communal unity and collaborative public service values.
Violet Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Marlena Holden
Q. What is the proposed name?
Violet Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Uses the Wisconsin state flower (wood violet) to establish a neutral, nature-centered school pride.
Westside Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
Martha Netzloff
Q. What is the proposed name?
Westside Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Place of Local Significance: Provides an entirely neutral, stable geographic marker identifying the school’s physical region on the west side of town.
Wood Violet Elementary School
Q. What individuals/groups are proposing the name?
David Harper
Q. What is the proposed name?
Wood Violet Elementary School
Q. What is the compliance category & justification?
Idea or Concept Representing Broadly Respected Community Values: Uses the Wisconsin state flower to establish a neutral, nature-centered school pride.
Background and Outcomes
Background and Outcomes
This web page was created to keep the community informed of our work as we progressed through the naming process. Sincere thanks in advance to everyone who will volunteer their time, effort and energy to help establish the school’s permanent identity. Your participation and perspectives will be invaluable as this important process begins.
Local Coverage of MMSD Renamings
Local Coverage of Current MMSD Renamings
- MMSD taking suggestions on what to rename Elvehjem and Lindbergh Elementary Schools
- Madison will rename César Chávez Elementary School
- One week left to submit renaming proposals for Elvehjem and Lindbergh Elementary Schools
- The Madison School District will rename Chavez Elementary
- Madison unveils new names being considered for Lindbergh and Elvehjem schools
- MMSD begins accepting proposals for César Chávez Elementary name change
- McFarland historian to present deep dive into Elvehjem's life
- Madison School District taking suggestions on what to rename Lindbergh, Elvehjem
- Jewish community, others push to rename Charles Lindbergh Elementary
- MMSD schedules public hearings for Elvehjem and Lindbergh renamings
- MMSD opens community naming process for Elvehjem and Lindbergh Elementary Schools
- Madison school district renaming Elvehjem, Lindbergh elementary schools
- Here are the 29 renaming proposals for two Madison elementary schools
- MMSD considering 29 potential names for Lindbergh, Elvehjem schools
