Team Indians,
Ms Agrusa was kind enough to reply from The Superintendent's office. It appears the decision is pending and perhaps, can be appealed. WE will continually try our best and perhaps couple with other towns and municipalities in Long Island who are facing the same issue. If there is a one in a billion shot, at this point, we have no choice but to take it.
Anthony
Dear Ms. Agrusa,
I hope you are having a pleasant Tuesday. �
As a group, we will always support Sewanhaka and give deserved awards.
Regarding part 123, and your generous response below, kept in this email thread so it is not forgotten �, thank you for getting back to us.
Should we review part 123 and get involved with the district committee, and perhaps get representatives from the group(s) the mascot and logo represent, do you think we can make a difference regarding this pending decision?
I realize you cannot state your position. But, your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Support appears to be growing by 150 supporters each day. You are welcome to call me anytime, if you would like to discuss this further.
Cordially,
Dr. Anthony Fama
part 123 Regulations of the Commissioner of Education which prohibits the use of indigenous names, mascots, and logos by public schools. The district is assembling a committee to review the mascot and logo to ensure they do not promote harmful stereotypes or cultural appropriation. We acknowledge that this work is challenging and emotional as many folks feel a deep connection to their school community and history.
For further clarification and understanding, please refer to the NYS Education website or the Part 123 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education.
Thank you very much,
Regina M. Agrusa
Deputy Superintendent
Sewanhaka Central High School District
516-488-9851
From: Regina Agrusa <ragrusa@sewanhakaschools.org>
Sent: Tuesday, June 6, 2023 5:37 PM
To: Anthony Fama <afama@exectechgroup.com>; Joanne Murnane <jmurnane@sewanhakaschools.org>
Subject: Re: Sewanhaka Indians name and Logo
Dr. Fama,
Thank you very much for supporting our students at the Sewanhaka Awards ceremony. We appreciate the generosity of our alumni associations in recognizing the accomplishments of our graduating seniors. Thank you!
With regard to your email, at the May Board of Education meeting, our school Board of Education approved a resolution to comply with Part 123 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education which prohibits the use of indigenous names, mascots, and logos by public schools. The district is assembling a committee to review the mascot and logo to ensure they do not promote harmful stereotypes or cultural appropriation. We acknowledge that this work is challenging and emotional as many folks feel a deep connection to their school community and history.
For further clarification and understanding, please refer to the NYS Education website or the Part 123 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education.
Thank you very much,
Regina M. Agrusa
Deputy Superintendent
Sewanhaka Central High School District
516-488-9851