FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Marisa Berumen, 619-847-6029, mberumen@sandi.net
SAN DIEGO UNIFIED BOARD OF EDUCATION UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES INITIATION OF NAME CHANGE PROCESS FOR CESAR CHAVEZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Board Action Launches Formal, Community-Engaged Process Centered on
Transparency, Inclusion and Student Well-being
SAN DIEGO (March 24, 2026) – The San Diego Unified School District Board of Education has unanimously approved the initiation of the formal process to consider renaming of César Chávez Elementary School, in alignment with Board Policy 7310 and Administrative Regulation 7310, which guide the naming and renaming of district facilities.
The board's action marks the first step in a structured, community-driven process designed to ensure transparency, inclusivity, and meaningful engagement. While Administrative Regulation 7310 typically limits the district to one school name or mascot change per year, the Board's unanimous approval of this item allows for a second name change proposal to be considered in the remaining time left during the 2025-26 school year. This action reflects the significance of this moment and the need to respond thoughtfully to community concerns. Final approval of a name change for César Chávez Elementary School will be considered once the school community submits a proposal for the Board's consideration.
Superintendent Bagula stated, "We recognize that this is not a simple or easy moment. It calls for us to lead with clarity, with care, and with integrity. Our focus remains on supporting our students and community, creating space for meaningful dialogue, and ensuring that the outcome of this process reflects the values we hold as a district."
This action follows recent developments that led to a joint statement issued by the Board of Education and Superintendent Bagula:
"There is no place—ever—for the abuse of children or any person, anywhere. San Diego Unified is committed to supporting our community through this moment by creating the space and structure for thoughtful, respectful conversations—grounded in truth, centered on students, and responsive to those most impacted. While Cesar Chavez has long been honored for his contributions to civil rights and farmworker advocacy, these reports are serious, concerning and deeply troubling. Our first responsibility is to acknowledge and support anyone who may have been harmed. As we move forward, including conversations about a school that bears his name, our focus will be on listening deeply to better understand the impact to the school community and how we might collectively move forward in a way that prioritizes student safety and a sense of belonging."
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