Lamar Consolidated ISD Celebrates Melton Elementary School Namesake
Lamar Consolidated ISD celebrating the opening one of its latest educational facilities, Melton Elementary School, ushering in a new era for its growing student community. As one of four new campuses added to the district for the 2024-2025 academic year, Melton Elementary was unveiled to the public in a dedication ceremony last Friday.
Named in honor of Willie Melton Sr., a successful farmer, expert in animal husbandry and respected civil rights pioneer, the new school is located in the Jordan Ranch community in Fulshear. Willie Melton Sr. is remembered for his crucial role in the 1953 U.S. Supreme Court case Terry vs. Adams, which played a significant role in securing voting rights for all Americans.
Superintendent Dr. Roosevelt Nivens addressed those attending the ceremony by reminiscing about the past while highlighting the present. He affirmed Lamar CISD's commitment to "cherish the memory of Willie Melton Sr. both for his pioneering work in Civil Rights and his commitment to the good of future generations.”
Members of the Melton family with Lamar Consolidated ISD Superintendent Dr. Roosevelt Nivens and Laura Haugvoll, who was recognized as the 2023-2024 Elementary Principal of the Year for the district, is the principal of Melton Elementary School. With more than 31 years of experience in education, Haugvoll has been with Lamar CISD for 19 years. She expressed her enthusiasm about the new school by saying, "We are proud to be representing Willie Melton. I’m so excited to be principal here at Melton Elementary.”
Over 30 members of the extended Melton family along with friends attended the event and spoke about the legacy of their family member, the school's namesake. Franklin Melton, the last living son of Willie Melton Sr., shared personal anecdotes about his father's character and perspective towards others. Cameron Melton, a great-granddaughter of Willie Melton Sr., spoke about how her great-grandfather's story inspired her to become an attorney.
“He was just a beautiful man, and he was always kind,” Melton said of his late father. “He addressed all men as brothers, even though he knew their names."
The building of Melton Elementary School was made possible through the support and sponsorship of VLK Architects, Drymalla Construction, and Jordan Ranch/Johnson Development.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
