Clairemont High School’s Mascot Faces Renaming Due to New Law

News Summary

The San Diego Unified School District is considering a name change for Clairemont High School’s mascot, the Chieftains, following California’s ban on derogatory terms. The law, effective until July 2026, aims to promote inclusivity by eliminating disrespectful names. A new naming committee will gather community input to ensure the new name reflects shared values and cultural significance. This change highlights a movement toward respect and understanding for Indigenous communities.

Change is Coming in San Diego: Clairemont High School’s Mascot on the Chopping Block

In the vibrant city of San Diego, school spirit is about to take on a whole new meaning. The San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) is gearing up to make a significant change as they explore the renaming of Clairemont High School’s mascot, currently known as the Chieftains. This move comes in light of California’s recent ban on derogatory terms used in school names and mascots, specifically targeting any names that can be considered offensive to Native Americans.

The Law You Need to Know

Under the new California Racial Mascot Act, which explicitly lists the term “Chieftains” as off-limits, schools across the state have until July 2026 to phase out any mascot names that are derogatory. This law aims to promote an inclusive environment for all students and eliminate terms that can be harmful or disrespectful.

Paving the Way for Change

As the first school to propose a name change, Clairemont High is stepping into a critical spotlight. SDUSD Board Trustee Sabrina Bazzo noted the necessity of creating a comfortable environment for every student within the district, which comprises over 200 schools. The board is expected to discuss and vote on a new process aimed at reflecting cultural, historical, or community significance, especially when it comes to school names and mascots.

New Rules for Renaming

One of the exciting developments is the creation of a new 10-person naming committee comprising district staff, students, and community members. This collaborative approach aims to foster inclusivity and ensure that the new mascot name resonates with everyone involved. The board is proposing that only one name change proposal per school year be considered to ensure thoroughness and financial viability.

Community Engagement is Key

Community involvement is at the heart of this renaming process. Students and community members at Clairemont High have already expressed enthusiasm for discussing possible changes. The district plans to collect feedback and suggestions through surveys and public hearings, ensuring that every voice is heard before making any recommendations for a new name.

Learning from the Past

Previous renaming efforts, such as the recent change from Henry Clay Elementary School to Dr. Bertha O. Pendleton Elementary, have shown the importance of learning from past experiences and engaging with the community. The goal is to avoid any missteps and ensure that newly proposed names reflect the community’s values while promoting equity and empowerment.

Funding and Transparency

So, who’s footing the bill for all these changes? Funds for the renaming effort will come from the SDUSD’s general fund. The proposed rules governing the renaming process also aim to enhance transparency and foster stronger community involvement, effectively sidestepping past criticisms regarding a lack of clarity in such matters.

Respect for Indigenous Communities

The emotional connections that students and alumni may have with the current mascot name are acknowledged by the SDUSD. However, respect for local tribes and their preferences will remain a priority throughout this process. Local Indigenous communities have shown their support for the legislation, advocating for more respectful representation in school settings.

What’s Next?

As the SDUSD gears up for the board vote on this crucial topic, the community awaits with bated breath to see what new name possibilities might emerge. Whatever the outcome, it’s clear that this movement toward change reflects a broader societal shift towards inclusivity, understanding, and respect. As Clairemont High progresses into this new chapter, it stands as a beacon of how schools can evolve while honoring the rich tapestry of their communities.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

San Diego Unified School District Announces New Community Schools
Clairemont High School to Change Mascot

Additional Resources

• NBC San Diego
• San Diego Union Tribune
• CBS 8
• Google Search: San Diego School Mascot Changes
• Wikipedia: Native American Mascots