Boston Began Search for New School Name
Families at Shaw-Taylor Elementary School can now submit ideas for a new name to the district.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Secondary Education
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Boston Public Schools has initiated a renaming process for Shaw-Taylor Elementary School. Local families are invited to participate in the selection process to help determine the school's new identity.
Why it matters
The renaming process allows the local community to choose a name that honors specific individuals, reflects the neighborhood, or highlights academic themes. This shift ensures the school name resonates with the current values and demographics of the district.
The renaming process launched in June and allows submissions via an online survey or physical box at Shaw-Taylor Elementary School.
The players
Boston Public Schools
The municipal school district responsible for oversight of all public education facilities and policies within Boston.
Shaw-Taylor Elementary School
The local elementary school currently undergoing a formal community-led name change process.
School Committee
The local governing body that holds the authority to review and approve the final naming recommendation.
The details
The district is soliciting names that pay tribute to individuals, represent the local area, or focus on academic themes. Residents can share their suggestions through an online portal or by using drop boxes located at the school site. Public hearings in November and December will further facilitate community feedback during this transition.
Timeline
June 2026: The renaming process was officially launched.
November and December 2026: Public hearings are scheduled to gather feedback.
Winter or spring 2027: A final recommendation will go before the School Committee.
The Home Front
This transition aligns with standard municipal school district naming policies in Boston. Such updates often occur as districts seek to better align facility identities with the evolution of their local neighborhoods.
Families living in the district should consider whether they have input on the school's new identity before the upcoming public hearings. You can share your suggestions through the official school renaming online survey to ensure your voice is heard.
The takeaway
Naming a school is a collaborative process designed to reflect the community's heritage or academic goals. Residents are encouraged to participate in the public hearings scheduled for November and December to influence the final decision.
What happens next
Public hearings are set to take place throughout November and December 2026. A final naming recommendation is projected to go before the School Committee in the winter or spring of 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local school governance and updates in the Secondary Education section.
More information
Submit your name suggestions or view upcoming meeting details through the school renaming online survey.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Dorchester Reporter.
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