During a recent school board meeting, members engaged in a heated discussion regarding the potential continuation of litigation over the district's Thunderbird mascot. The board is considering whether to allocate an additional $25,000 to legal fees associated with the case, which has sparked significant community interest and concern.

One board member emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility, expressing reluctance to incur further costs without clear community support. They noted that previous attempts to secure grants for the district had not yielded any financial assistance, leaving the district to cover the estimated $500,000 in legal expenses if they choose to proceed with the lawsuit.

The conversation highlighted differing opinions on the mascot's significance, with some members arguing that the Thunderbird represents a proud tradition, while others pointed out that similar mascots in other districts have been changed due to legal pressures. The board's attorney was not present to provide clarity on the case's strength, leading to calls for greater transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process.

Several board members advocated for a new community survey to gauge current sentiments regarding the mascot, arguing that the previous survey may have been skewed. They expressed a desire for a more comprehensive understanding of community opinions before committing additional funds to litigation.

Ultimately, the board voted to approve the additional funding for legal expenses, with a split decision reflecting the ongoing debate over the mascot's future. The meeting underscored the complexities of balancing community values, legal obligations, and fiscal responsibility as the district navigates this contentious issue.