Rome School Board to Name Stokes Elementary Gymnasium After Ayla Griffiths

Utica, NY, October 5, 2026 —

The Rome school board has announced its decision to name the gymnasium at Stokes Elementary School in honor of Ayla Griffiths. The exact date of the official naming ceremony was not provided in the summary. Further details regarding the selection process or the specific reasons for honoring Ayla Griffiths were also not included in the information available.

Stokes Elementary School is a part of the Rome school district. The decision reflects an effort to recognize individuals who have made a significant contribution or impact within the school community or the wider Rome area. The gymnasium is a central facility within the school, used for athletic activities, physical education classes, and school events.

The full scope of Ayla Griffiths’s connection to the school or community was not detailed. Information regarding any specific achievements, past roles, or the duration of her involvement that led to this distinct honor is not presently available. The Rome school board’s formal decision-making process for such recognitions typically involves nominations and a review by board members. However, the specifics of this particular nomination and approval process were not disclosed.

The naming of school facilities is a common practice intended to commemorate individuals for their service, achievements, or dedication. These honors serve as lasting tributes and can inspire current and future students. The gymnasium at Stokes Elementary School will now bear the name Ayla Griffiths, marking a permanent acknowledgment by the school board.

Additional information, such as the timeline for when the gymnasium will officially be recognized with its new name and any public events planned in connection with the dedication, has not been made public. The contractor responsible for any physical signage or modifications was not mentioned. The specific requirements or criteria used by the Rome school board for selecting individuals for such honors were not elaborated upon.

Story summarized from the original created by Mike Jaquays | Staff writer | MJaquays@RNYmedia.com on www.romesentinel.com, see more information here.

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