Apache Name Input Opportunities, ThoughtExchange Results & Updates

 

Updated 10/27/21

 

AUSD Board of Education Meeting 10/26/21 Apache Name Discussion (33:32)

 

 

AUSD Email on 10/6/21 to Staff, Students, Families, and Community 

Dear Arcadia Unified Staff, Students, Parents, and Community,

While we are not on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic just yet, we feel we are at a place where we can continue the very important conversation surrounding the use of the Apache name and imagery for Arcadia High School. You may recall last year, we were asked to revisit the use of the longstanding namesake of Arcadia High School, and Dr. Vannasdall committed to a transparent and thorough process to ensure this important discussion was given the proper attention it deserves and that all voices had the opportunity to be heard.    

On Monday, October 18, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., we will host the Apache Name Information and Input Forum at the Arcadia Performing Arts Center, which is located at 188 Campus Drive in Arcadia.  

 

You can view a recording of the Input Forum here.

This will allow people the opportunity to hear a brief student-led presentation from Arcadia High School’s School Council Apache Commission (SCAC) and will provide attendees with time to speak and share their thoughts. Each speaker will have up to three minutes to speak on stage. This forum will not be a debate, discussion, Q&A, or vote; rather, this event is an opportunity to listen to one another’s thoughts and feedback. The input voiced will be used to help guide the decision on whether to keep using the Apache name or to retire it. Please note, a decision will not be made at the event, and the next steps will be communicated at a later date. 

To ensure as many people as possible have an opportunity to be heard and the chance to share their thoughts, we have also created a virtual ThoughtExchange that is -now closed- (click here) and accessible to everyone and will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, October 14, 2021.

 

You can view the results of the Thoughtexchange here.

The question is: What are your thoughts, feelings, and questions on using the Apache name to represent Arcadia High School? 

Any comments that name a specific individual, are off-topic, or use offensive or inappropriate language will automatically be removed by the system’s algorithm. Before entering the ThoughtExchange, you will also be asked to select your connection to Arcadia High School, e.g. student, staff, alumni, etc. You will then see thoughts from your selected group that have already been entered by other participants, and you will be allowed to give star ratings to the thoughts that resonate with you and/or the thoughts you feel are most important. The top thoughts of each group will be shared at the Apache Name Information and Input Forum on October 18. 

We sincerely appreciate your participation in this important conversation and look forward to a productive and civil process. 

Sincerely, 

Arcadia Unified School District