During a recent government meeting, students from the Centralia Middle School Leadership Class presented a proposal to change the school's mascot and colors to align with the broader Centralia School District identity. The current mascot, the Yellow Jackets, would be replaced with the Tigers, a move that aims to unify the school's branding with five of the seven schools in the district already adopting tiger-themed identities.

Anna Summers, a leadership teacher, introduced the students, who shared their motivations for the change. They highlighted the potential for increased school spirit and community support, noting that many parents are reluctant to purchase gear for a mascot that their children will not represent for long. The students emphasized that adopting the tiger identity would foster a sense of belonging and continuity as they transition to high school.

The proposal also included a survey conducted among students, staff, and community members, which revealed that 66.3% favored the tiger mascot. The students outlined a phased approach to implementing the changes, suggesting that costs could be mitigated through community involvement and partnerships with local businesses. They proposed a gradual rollout of new uniforms and signage, with the possibility of repurposing existing resources to ease the financial burden.

Centralia Middle School Principal Laura Gregorich Bennett expressed her pride in the students' initiative, emphasizing the importance of student voice in shaping their educational environment. The students assured the community that if the change is approved, they would honor the legacy of the Yellow Jackets by creating a dedicated space to commemorate their history.

The discussion concluded with council members expressing support for the initiative, recognizing the challenges of rebranding while also acknowledging the potential benefits of a unified school identity. The students' proposal is set to be further evaluated as they seek community feedback and support for the transition.