NOSD backed by other districts in mascot ban fight

The majority of school districts in Wisconsin sided with the Northern Ozaukee School Board in Fredonia recently when they voted down an effort to ban Native American mascots, logos and nicknames in Wisconsin public schools.

A resolution put to the Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB) was first proposed by the Wausau School Board. It sought to recommend to the state Legislature that Native American mascots and logos, such as Ozaukee High School’s Warrior, be retired.

OHS is one of about 30 Wisconsin high schools that use a Native American mascot, nickname or logo.

WASB members vote each year on resolutions that set the group’s legislative agenda. If members approve a resolution, WASB will advocate for the policy change in the state Legislature.

The mascot resolution was one of dozens voted on but the most controversial, with the final vote being 218 against to 101 in favor.

The NOSD School Board voted 7-1 in December to oppose the WASB resolution, following a recommendation by Supt. Dave Karrels, who said such decisions are best left to local districts.

School Board member Suzanne Miller voted against Karrels’ recommendation, saying she supported the WASB resolution because the Warrior image is seen by and may affect people outside the district at sporting events.