Compromise offered in mascot disagreement
The vote that could be heard all around Laguna has prompted
letters and calls from outraged alumni and students about the switch
from the Laguna Beach High School “Artists” to the “Breakers.”
Natalie Hills, 15, has taken steps to initiate a compromise
between tradition and what some might call progress. But no matter
what you call it, very few have neutral feelings.
“Some students are very frustrated but they don’t want to voice
their opinions,” she said. “This is an opportunity to intervene
before it progresses into something further.”
In a proposal delivered to Principal Nancy Blade and Supt. Theresa
Daem Wednesday afternoon, Natalie suggests “any recognized campus
organization, including sports teams and clubs, may represent LBHS
using the official team name, ‘Breakers.’” However, the proposal also
makes clear that Laguna Beach High School will continue to be known
as “Home of the Artists” and that all students as well as alumni will
be “Artists.”
Artists was one of the selections on the ballot given to students
on registration day prior to the first day of classes. Of the votes,
65% were cast to change the name to Breakers but only 5% supported
keeping the Artists.
“The bottom line is that the name Artists represents Laguna as a
whole,” she said. “It’s not fair that it was changed so rapidly.”
She hopes that by approaching Daem and Blade, all stakeholders can
come to an agreement that will uphold tradition and yet allow clubs
to have a name they’re proud of.
“I think it’s a good compromise,” said Katie Stewart, 16. “People
who play sports can have their name but we have the Artists
associated with our school.”
-- Mary A. Castillo
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