Midland ISD Board to Consider Renaming Legacy High School

Midland, Texas – Midland Independent School District (MISD) will hold a special board meeting to consider renaming Legacy High School—formerly Robert E. Lee High School—back to a variant of its original name, Midland Lee High School, beginning with the 2026–2027 school year.

In July, District 7 Board Member Josh Guinn announced his proposal via social media, stating that renaming is “not about division—it’s about honoring the patriotic legacy that binds us”. Community supporters cited tradition, nostalgia, and school spirit—particularly around the renowned “Lee Rebels” football legacy—as reasons for the change.

However, the proposal has spurred significant debate. Opponents argue that any variation of “Lee”—even absent “Robert E.”—remains tied to Confederate iconography and stands contrary to values of inclusion and progress. Concerns include its origins in segregation-era resistance to desegregation, the cost of rebranding, and the emotional impact on marginalized communities.

In response, the board unanimously approved an amendment to the district’s naming policy: new honorees must not have taken up arms against the United States. The amendment, introduced by Trustee Sara Burleson, aims to ensure future naming decisions align with shared values and reconciliation.

MISD representatives encourage community members to engage—whether in-person or virtually—during public comment to help shape a widely supported path forward.