The process of changing the name of Lansing J.W. Sexton High School’s mascot is moving forward with a list of names to replace a name seen by some as insensitive.
The Lansing School District announced the decision in July to change the mascot from "Big Reds." A grant of $87,500 from the Native American Heritage Fund will help pay for the change. The total cost could reach $250,000. The district may apply for a second grant next year.
At a meeting this week, alternative names chosen by students were unveiled, including Big Dawgs, Cardinals, J-Dubbs, Saints, Scorpions and Vipers.
The Lansing State Journal reports that members of the Native American community, Sexton alumni and others are also suggesting possible names, like Red Hawks.
A final selection is expected in late December.
The next step will be designing a new logo. District officials hope to have a new name and logo for Sexton when the 2023 school year starts.
