Robert E. Lee School (Paris, Tennessee)
Robert E. Lee School was an elementary school located in Paris, Tennessee, named after Confederate General Robert E. Lee. The school served students in the Paris Special School District (PSSD).
The school's name was a subject of debate and controversy for many years, reflecting broader national discussions about the legacy of Confederate figures in public spaces. The debate often centered on whether the name honored a figure who defended slavery and secession, or whether it was a historical marker representing a complex and multifaceted past.
In 2020, following renewed national focus on racial justice and equity, the Paris Special School District Board of Education voted to rename the school. The decision was influenced by community input, including petitions, public forums, and discussions with stakeholders.
As of [Insert Date of Renaming if known, otherwise leave blank], the school was officially renamed Paris Elementary School. The renaming process included considerations for new signage, branding, and community engagement to reflect the school's updated identity. Following the renaming, curriculum and resources may have been reviewed to ensure accurate and inclusive historical representation.