Lamar school district drops 'Savage' from mascot name

FILE — Alina Balasoiu, a student at Lamar High School, walks back to school after playing in a soccer game in the fields behind the school in this file photograph taken March 31, 2015. Colorado lawmakers are considering a proposal to ban Native American mascots in public schools and colleges. the state Senate Education Committee is scheduled to discuss a measure Thursday, April 1, 2021 that would impose a $25,000 monthly fine on public schools, colleges and universities that continue to use an American Indian-themed mascot after June 1, 2022. (RJ Sangosti/The Denver Post via The AP)

by: Carisa Scott

Posted: May 20, 2022 / 03:06 PM MDT

Updated: May 20, 2022 / 03:06 PM MDT

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LAMAR, Colo. (KDVR) –The Lamar School District voted to remove the word savage from its proposed mascot name “Savage Thunder” after the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs’ decision to not approve the name change.

The school board acted Thursday after the commission told the district the word “savage” was associated with American Indians being treated as “uncivilized” or “second class citizens.”

Lamar High School’s 450 students will now use the “Lamar Thunder” as their mascot.

Chad Krug, Lamar School District’s Superintendent told the Problem Solvers the school estimates it will cost around $350,000 to change the mascot, including a new gym floor.

District leaders said it will work to meet the law’s requirements and start removing the old mascot after the school year ends May 24. Colorado lawmakers passed SB21-116 last year which prohibits public schools from using Native American mascots.

CCIA voted May 19 to take 11 schools from across the state off the noncompliance list after the schools shared plans to retire mascots or establish and affirm partnerships and relationships with tribes.

The commission also added several schools with the mascot “Thunderbirds,” to the list which commission members said refers to a mythical bird. These schools will get a year to change their mascot and avoid possible fines.