Union Public Schools Announces Committee To Evaluate Mascot

Union Public Schools decided Monday night to form a committee to re-evaluate its Redskins logo and mascot.

The school board hopes to see its new committee made of 35 members that include students, teachers, parents, community members and more.   

Superintendent Dr. Kirt Hartzler said the school district has been considering the name change for years and wanted to revisit that now. This new committee will oversee re-evaluating the Redskins logo and mascot. 

Students and community members hosted a demonstration before the meeting to share support for the name change. Some also shared how the name they see as derogatory has affected them personally.

“Union needs unity I really think we need to show it a little bit better,” said parent Margaret Hicks, who is Native American and has four kids at Union. 

“I think we should change the mascot because it's not helping native Americans in our schools,” said 6th grader Daisy. “It’s also not supporting the tribes.”

Speakers who talked to the board before they voted said the name is offensive and hurtful to Native Americans. They hope to see a diverse committee that supports everyone.

Only one speaker said he did not approve of the name change.

“You keep the name and stand up for something,” said the only speaker in opposition of the name.

Dr. Hartzler said he's recommending the committee meets once a month and brings their findings to the board by December.

The committee will be announced next month.