Dr. Martin L. Edwards, Jr. Theatre - family members of Dr. Edwards standing under the new theatre sign

Tyler High School held a special ceremony today to dedicate its new, state-of-the-art performing arts theatre as the Dr. Martin L. Edwards, Jr. Theatre. Tyler ISD administrators joined with members of Dr. Edwards’ family to celebrate the dedication.

A former Tyler ISD Board member and community physician, Dr. Edwards became the first African American elected to the Tyler ISD Board of Trustees in 1969. He served as a Trustee until 1987, leading the board as president from 1974-75 and vice president 1977-1978. Dr. Edwards played a pivotal role in governing the transition of Tyler ISD schools during integration, and worked to ensure all students would have the same educational opportunities across the city and throughout the school system.

Tyler ISD Superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford opened the ceremony by welcoming the Edwards family and friends and was followed by remarks from Tyler ISD Board President Wade Washmon, former Trustee Rev. Orenthia Mason, and Tyler High Principal Claude Lane.

For more information, please contact Jennifer Hines at 903-262-1064.