Many voiced their opinion to the school board that naming it  Elgin (West) HS would better rival the original Elgin HS located on the east side of the Fox River in the City of Elgin (thus Elgin East). The Larkin name ultimately prevailed.
Some people suggested renaming the school "Elgin (West) HS" to match the existing Elgin High School on the east side of the Fox River, but the Larkin name was chosen instead.