HOW WE BECAME THE REDHAWKS

HOW WE BECAME THE REDHAWKS

Karina Garcia, Journalist

Have you been wondering about our school mascot? How we changed it and what was the process of choosing such a majestic animal as our representation? Well Renton students and staff continue reading to learn more about our school.  

Redhawks! Also known as the Red-Tail Hawk, the most common bird in North America with over a dozen subspecies. Having one of the best hunting skills and being able to adapt to any environment is something we do as a school. The Red-tailed hawk is also a spiritual animal within the Native American community that symbolizes which was believed to worn the Native American of danger is they saw flying around them. Therefore, the RedHawk is a helpful animal for us to be aware of to avoid danger.  

This is our coat of arms which represents our Pride, Tradition, and Excellence since 1911

The Redhawk is a bird with courage, determination, and unity which is the best representation of our school. Did you know in native culture if a Redhawk soars above your head it is a warning that something bad is coming or danger is near. Our name was thought thoroughly by our community and our 15 members including our staff, alumni, students, and people from the Native Ed Director. This process took two to three months to figure out because the board did not know what to survey the community on. They finally thought about what names were given to them by the student’s alumni and the staff. The plan was to find a respectful and appropriate name that does not disrespect our Native American community. The board received 72 submissions and the board chose the top three names which were the Bears, Wolves, and Redhawks. There was another survey taken between the staff, alumni, and the Native Ed Director and Redhawks had received the most votes between the three names. 

This is a Red-tailed Hawk

Renton Redhawks is a family surrounded by a great community. This name has given the school the opportunity to embrace our school spirit with spirit gear and being able to show who we are as a school and represent that we are COURGE, DETERMINATION, AND UNITY. One of the best names and mascots that has honor and respect for our Native community. 

Therefore, Renton Redhawks lets embrace our new mascot with pride and excellence for more years that come! Enjoy the rest of your day and thank you for reading my article 😊  

Sources:  

  • Ms.Del (RHS librarian)  
  • Google