Deer River schools opt to alter mascot but keep 'Warriors' name

DEER RIVER — School districts across the region are addressing a change in Minnesota law around the use of American Indian terminology and imagery in school mascots.

The Grand Rapids School District filed for an exemption to keep their “Thunderhawks” mascot but received notice it was denied.

At the nearby Deer River School District, the school board opted not to file for an exemption and instead voted to remove the feathers and spears from their mascot but keep the “Warriors” name.

"The board's rationale for keeping the Warrior name is due to the word 'warrior' being non-specific and is defined as a brave person, experienced soldier; a person who shows great vigor or courage; and sacrifices self for the good of others," stated Deer River Superintendent Pat Rendle.

Grand Rapids Superintendent Matt Grose said the cost to replace the mascot name in signage and uniforms will be costly and that no money is allocated for mascot changes from the state. Grand Rapids Schools changed their mascot name from the Indians to the Thunderhawks in 1995.

The law says mascots with American Indian imagery or names must change by Sept. 1, 2025.