TEMPLE, Texas — Temple ISD's newest elementary school will bear a familiar mascot when it opens its doors next school year.
TISD has announced that Sampson-Howard Elementary will be known as the Cougars, named after the current mascot at Cater Elementary, which is expected to close.
According to the district, a group of teachers at Cater Elementary, which TISD says will close "imminently" due to declining neighborhood enrollment, suggested the idea of bringing their mascot with them as they move to Sampson-Howard.
In a meeting on Jan. 9, the TISD board of trustees made the decision official, dubbing the Cougar as Sampson-Howard's new mascot.
“The fact that this incredible idea originated with the Cater staff speaks volumes about their commitment and enthusiasm about opening Sampson-Howard,” said Shannon Gowan, TISD trustee – District 6.
“The idea to carry the mascot forward to the new school is such a thoughtful way to honor the legacy of current and previous students and staff from Cater,” added Shannon Myers, TISD trustee – District 7.
TISD said the board had already decided Sampson-Howard's colors would be blue and gold, so the communications department modified the color of the existing cougar mascot to create a new logo for the new elementary school.
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“In TISD, we value the voices of our staff and community,” said Dr. Bobby Ott, superintendent of Temple schools. “I am grateful for the trust we have between administration and staff, which facilitates the thoughtful exchange of ideas. This is a shining example of collaboration, trust and the standard we set for honoring those that came before us.”
TISD said Sampson-Howard Elementary School is being constructed in the southeast part of Temple to accommodate for "rapid growth" in the area. The school was the largest project planned as part of the 2022 Bond passed by voters in May of 2022.
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