The Longview ISD Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a naming recommendation for the new Career and Technical Education (CTE) expansion at Longview High School, following a community-driven selection process. Final determination on the facility’s exact formal name will continue at a later date.
District leaders said the recommendation to honor the late James Paul Brewer emerged with strong and consistent support across all stakeholder groups.
“This was not a split decision dressed up as consensus,” said Matthew Prosser, chief of strategic initiatives. “Mr. Brewer received the most support clearly, repeatedly, and across every major stakeholder group we measured.”
Survey results showed Brewer led all categories, including alumni, staff, parents, and community members. He received support from 85 of 112 alumni respondents (76%), 44 of 61 staff members (72%), 37 of 55 parents and guardians (67%), and 27 of 41 community members (66%). The naming committee later voted unanimously, 6-0, to recommend Brewer to the board.
Prosser said the feedback also reflected a broader preference among respondents.
“People understood this as a legacy decision,” he said. “They wanted the building to say something about who we are, not just what happens inside it.”
Brewer served Texas education for 40 years, including nearly 30 years as an administrator. He was preparing to begin his 17th year at Longview High School at the time of his passing in July 2023. During his career, he was recognized as Superintendent of the Year, Principal of the Year and Coach of the Year.
“But more than this, he was a good friend,” Prosser said. “Mr. Brewer was a friend and mentor to students and staff alike.”
Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard said Brewer’s legacy continues to resonate across the district.
“James Brewer was the kind of leader whose name still carries weight because he earned that weight over time,” Sheppard said. “He led one of the most visible campuses in East Texas with steadiness and fairness and left a lasting impact on generations of students and staff.”
The board will continue discussions before finalizing the official name of the new CTE facility.
“While the decision to honor Mr. Brewer has been made, the exact wording and formal name of the facility is still being finalized,” said Prosser, adding that more details will be released "ahead of the public dedication of the facility, as construction work nears completion."
