The Litchfield Elementary School District Governing Board has approved the name Troy Gilbert Elementary School for the district’s 17th campus, which is scheduled to open in fall 2026 near Perryville Road and Glendale Avenue.

The school will be named after Major Troy Gilbert, a U.S. Air Force F-16 pilot stationed at Luke Air Force Base who died on Nov. 27, 2006, during a mission near Baghdad, Iraq. Gilbert was a father of five and a member of the local community. At the time of his passing, his two oldest children attended Corte Sierra Elementary School, which is part of LESD.

“We are proud to name our newest school after an American hero whose selfless service and commitment to our country reflect the values that resonate in our school district and are seen in characteristics of the Litchfield Learner,” stated Dr. Carter Davidson, LESD superintendent. “Major Gilbert’s legacy of courage, care for his community, and sacrifice will serve as an inspiration to the students and staff of Troy Gilbert Elementary School for generations to come.”

The name was selected through the district’s school naming process, which included community input and discussions among district leadership. The next step will be selecting the school’s mascot and colors.

“After reviewing community feedback, we had two worthy candidate namesakes,” stated Luke Jankee, the school's principal . “However, we are honored to move forward with Troy Gilbert Elementary School. His name embodies the characteristics of excellence, service, and integrity that LESD strives to instill in our students.”

LESD has operated for more than 107 years and currently runs 16 schools across Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear, and Litchfield Park. The district serves more than 10,500 preschool through eighth grade students and employs nearly 1,300 educators and staff.

The district expects to break ground on the new school later this spring.

Visit bit.ly/TroyGilbertEl. for construction updates and project progress.