The Weedsport Central School District has chosen ‘Wolverines’ as its new mascot, following the New York State Board of Regents guidelines that mandate schools to discontinue the use of Native American symbols.
This decision retires the district’s previous ‘Warriors’ moniker and imagery in an effort to align with state regulations and foster an environment free from discrimination.
Community involvement played a pivotal role in the selection process, with votes cast between October 18 and October 26 to determine the new mascot. After deliberation and a final advisory survey, the Wolverines emerged as the chosen identity over other options, including the Thunderbolts.
The district’s decision mirrors actions taken by other Central New York schools in response to the April directive from the state’s Board of Regents.
The directive, stemming from the Dignity Act which promotes a safe and supportive atmosphere in schools, prohibits the use of Native American names and imagery in mascots and logos. Non-compliance by the end of the 2022-23 school year could lead to penalties such as the withholding of State Aid and the removal of school officers.
Weedsport Central School District has yet to unveil the logo or rendering for the Wolverines mascot.
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