In December 2017, the public learned that Henry Huntly Haight, the California Governor after whom Haight Elementary School is named, held racist views.

In response to the information, more than 100 parents signed a petition asking for a new name for the school. As mandated by AUSD’s Administrative Regulation 7310, the principal then convened a "Renaming Committee" in the spring of 2018.  

Through the spring and summer of 2018, the committee generated ideas for engaging Haight families, students, staff, alumni, neighbors, and the broader community in the renaming process. Through September and October 2018, committee members sought to raise community awareness of Governor Haight's views and the re-naming initiative, and they also solicited names from the general community.  A primary election was held November 6, 2018, and a general election was held November 15, 2018. The resulting "candidate" name was Love Elementary School.

As set forth in AR 7310, the committee presented a recommendation for the new name to Superintendent McPhetridge. He accepted the name and presented it to the Board of Education on January 22, 2019. The Board announced the proposed name on January 25, 2019. Public comments were accepted through April 15, 2019. Board presentations were given on this topic on August 14, 2018, January 22, 2019, and March 26, 2019.

Tonight, the Board is asked to vote on whether to accept the new name, "Love Elementary School," or maintain the current name, "Haight Elementary School."