Green Bay’s latest elementary school has been named, with a theme inspired by the Packers. The new school, slated for construction to begin this summer, will be called Starr Elementary, in tribute to the legendary Green Bay Packers quarterback Bart Starr and his wife, celebrating their contributions both on the field and in the community.
“When I reflect on Bart Starr, I think about what we know of him, his character,” board member Alex Mineau remarked. “He embodies respect, honor, and kindness, and I believe he would be thrilled that his wife is also recognized in this manner.” Starr guided the Packers to five championships, including two Super Bowl victories.
Together with his wife Cherry, he co-founded Rawhide Youth Services, a support organization for young people. (Naming the school after Bart Starr was also the top choice among Press-Gazette readers.) Superintendent Vicki Bayers mentioned she consulted with Bart Starr Jr., who was enthusiastic about the school bearing his family’s name.
Newly elected board vice president Lynn Gerlach noted that the Packers Hall of Fame promised to donate busts of both Bart and Cherry Starr if the school honors both family members. “I would love for girls entering the school to see a woman represented,” Gerlach said. “Many of those girls will grow up to be wives, and Cherry Starr is a wonderful role model for that role.”
Located at the Kennedy Elementary site at 1754 Ninth St., Starr Elementary is expected to open in 2026. As the district’s largest undertaking in its school consolidation strategy, the $60 million project will accommodate students from Kennedy, Keller Elementary, and MacArthur Elementary.