Indianola board tables debate over ‘Indians’ nickname after hours of public comment

The Indianola Community School District board voted 6–1 on Sept. 9 to table further discussion about the district’s longtime "Indians" nickname until the governor or state education authorities provide guidance.

The action followed nearly three hours of public comment in which dozens of residents, parents and students spoke both for and against changing the nickname. A motion to change the nickname was made during the meeting but died for lack of a second; later, board member Ryan Worley moved to table or suspend further conversation until direction from the governor or state board, and board member Rob seconded. The motion passed on a recorded vote, 6–1.

Supporters of keeping the nickname described the name as tradition and local pride. "If you change it you're making a big mistake," said Paul Carter, who identified himself as a longtime resident. Several speakers recounted multi-generational ties to the district and stressed logistical and financial burdens to rebrand.

Other speakers urged change. "Changing the Indian brand does not change that pride," said a student speaker who identified as a senior; several speakers cited the American Psychological Association’s resolution recommending retirement of American Indian mascots and asked the district to consider potential harms to Native students. One parent, speaking about classroom conditions and priorities, told the board: "Changing the team name will not help teachers with behaviors or students learn to control their behaviors." (Patty Alexander)

Speakers on both sides raised costs. A student said rebranding could cost "about a million dollars," a figure repeated by several commenters; the board took those figures as community claims rather than verified district estimates.

After public comment ended, the board discussed options including a community-driven review, phased replacement by attrition and asking the state for direction. The motion to change the nickname failed for a lack of a second. The subsequent motion to suspend further board discussion until the governor or state education board acts was made by board member Ryan Worley and seconded by board member Rob; the motion passed 6–1.

The board’s action leaves the current nickname in place for now. The district’s superintendent, Mrs. Paul, told the board administration will continue to work with community stakeholders on related issues and asked for civility in ongoing conversations. The board did not set a timeline for revisiting the issue and said it would follow any direction from state authorities.

What’s next: The board’s tabling vote means the district will not take further local action on the nickname unless directed by the governor or a state agency; community members and advocacy groups may continue to press the district or seek state-level guidance.