We have been among approximately 75 schools that used this and other references to Native Americans, such as Warriors and Red Skins. The Board of Education authorized the Administration this past summer to involve the school community in the exploration of a new team name, mascot, logo, and school colors. However, because of cultural, religious, and gang-related connotations, the Superintendent rejected this proposed team name and asked that a new vote be taken, this time choosing between the second and third choices. These were the Tigers and the Knights. The Board of Education then authorized the name to be changed officially, effective July 1, 2001.
School colors remain the same, orange and black.
A new logo and new mascot will be introduced in the fall as part of the rededication of the junior-senior high school building, when the building project is completed. Our students handled this whole process in an outstanding fashion. Although some questioned the need to change the team name in the beginning, they quickly understood that, although we have no major representation in our local community of Native American tribal members, we had an obligation to consider their request not to be objectified in this manner. The peaceful and appropriate transition is reflective of our community's continuing commitment to acceptance of diverse people and cultures. N YS Dept. of Education requires that all districts have in place an Integrated Pest Management program.