We started by eliminating every high school mascot already in use in San Diego County.  In our research, we discovered eight high schools in the San Diego section call themselves the Eagles, five use the Knights, and four schools use either the Patriots or the Wildcats as their mascots.  We knew from the start, we wanted something original.

We also wanted to stay with mascot choices that are indigenous – or at the very least, familiar.  We were surprised to discover several schools using mascots like the Bulldogs, Vikings, and White Tigers in San Diego when mascot choices like the Sharks and Coyotes remain unclaimed. 

Working with a small committee over the summer, we came up with nine mascot options from the land, sea, and the air.

From the Land, Coyotes, Timberwolves, or the Lobos

From the Air, Seahawks, Nighthawks, or simply the Hawks

From the Sea, Sharks, Dolphins, or the Marlins

August 27, 28, and 29^th, over 700 Oak Valley Middle School students voted for their favorite mascot choice taken from above.  Most liked the options they were presented – though some exercised the opportunity to express themselves “writing-in” their preference instead.  Some of the more creative suggestions we received included the Ligers, the Penguins, the Kittens, the Octopi and the Lambs.

September 30^th, OVMS students voted again – this time for their top choice among the finalists: the Timberwolves, the Dolphins, the Lobos, and the Nighthawks.