City of Newton may sell naming rights to its schools

NEWTON, Mass. (WHDH) -- The City of Newton is looking to raise money by selling naming rights to parts of its schools.

Newton’s North and South high schools couldn’t have more basic or self-explanatory names: Newton North High School and Newton South High School.

“Not only is it easier to acquaint with an area, it comes off the tip of the tongue better. It’s easy to say,” said Conrad Buys, Newton South junior.

But, new names may appear on the schools -- all in the name of raising money. Big donors -- be they companies or individuals -- could get naming rights.

“My first reaction was I was a little put off, and it didn’t feel comfortable to me,” said Debbie Knight, a Newton South parent.

“I was kind of disgusted with it,” said Johan Buys, a Newton South parent. “The amount of money that we pay for schooling and for everything you have to pay for, so they can’t find another way to make money?”

The co-presidents of the Newton Schools Foundation, who are seeking to raise millions for education and technology, are telling residents not to panic. They say they will reject any name if they see fit.

The co-presidents’ hope is that big companies will not want to use their own names, but use the money to honor others.

“I would like to see school spaces named after teachers, and I might pay for it, but I want a teacher to be respected,” said Julie Sall, The Newton Schools Foundation.

The plan needs to be approved by Newton’s Board of Aldermen.