STEP Program Works with Tohono O’odham to Create Unifying Mascot

The Bureau of Indian Education is working to increase student opportunity and self-advocacy by improving technology and digital capacity as part of the Strategic Transformation for Education Plan.

STEP includes new, modern websites and branding for each school. School websites and branding are essential for enhancing communication, promoting identity and engaging the community. In the 21st century, well-functioning websites are essential and expected. Before STEP, only 11 schools operate by the BIE had functioning websites while 22 had no website at all. Forty schools had no official logo or branding.

Now, 29 schools have revamped, or new logos and 18 schools have up-to-date websites with more on the way. These new sites will serve as a central hub for real-time updates, resources and important information, ensuring parents and guardians stay informed. They will also showcase achievements, reflect the school’s values, and help attract prospective students and staff by displaying its culture.

Many schools have designed a new logo and mascot that better represents their community. From fierce animals to cartoon characters, mascots have a unique ability to unify students, alums and the community. School mascots embody school spirit, pride and tradition; they mean much more at BIE schools. BIE mascots reflect Tribal heritage, including important animals and symbols from the communities the school serves.

Mascots also embody the values, history and aspirations of the institutions they represent, often inspired by local culture, historical figures or natural features. Through the STEP program, schools now have a culturally relevant mascot they can display around campus, wear on jerseys and use to deepen school pride.

The Tohono O’odham High School logo uses two components of Tohono O’odham culture: the eagle and the I'itoi, the Man in the Maze. A sacred symbol, the Man in the Maze represents part of the Tribal creation story. The motif in the logo reminds us of the obstacles we encounter throughout life and the struggle to make the right choices. Combined with the Eagle as the school’s mascot, the new logo is full of cultural significance and meaning.

From their historical origins to their present-day significance, these beloved symbols represent school pride, tradition, and the qualities educational institutions strive to cultivate. They serve as a unifying force for the greater community.