LCPS board approves new name for former César E. Chávez Elementary
The Las Cruces Public Schools Board of Education voted to rename former César E. Chávez Elementary as Desert Bloom Elementary following a community feedback process.
School will become Desert Bloom Elementary on July 1 following controversy tied to misconduct allegations against Chavez
Organ Mountain News report
LAS CRUCES - The Las Cruces Public Schools Board of Education voted Tuesday night to rename former César E. Chávez Elementary School as Desert Bloom Elementary School.
The new name will officially take effect July 1.
The board voted unanimously during its regular meeting to approve the change after previously voting April 21 to remove César Chávez’s name from the school.
District officials said the decision followed a New York Times report detailing misconduct allegations against Chávez, prompting reevaluations of his name on schools, memorials and public spaces nationwide.
According to LCPS, students, parents and staff participated in a survey process to help select a new name for the campus.
Damien Willis
District officials said Desert Bloom emerged as the most popular choice among respondents. Other frequently supported suggestions included Desert Sky Elementary, Desert Sage Elementary, Organ Mountain Elementary and Mountain View Elementary.
LCPS officials said many participants favored names tied to the region’s desert landscape, mountains and natural environment, while others emphasized community identity and long-term relevance.
District leaders also noted that sun-themed names were popular because they would complement neighboring Sunrise Elementary.
The district said it will immediately begin rebranding efforts, including updating signage and replacing campus materials bearing the former name.
The school’s mascot, Tito the Coyotito, will remain unchanged.
LCPS plans to formally recognize the name change during a July 1 ceremony at the school.
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