Southside School Mascot & Song Banned

In a 7-0 vote, the Ft. Smith School Board voted Monday, July 27 to ban the mascot and song of Southside High School.  There were approximately 200 people who attended the meeting.

According to Dr. Benny Gooden, Superintendent for the Ft. Smith School District, a new fight song will be selected.  They may have others later on.  Johnny Reb, the school's mascot, will be replaced for the 2016-2017 school year.

Deanie Mehl, School Board President, said "The new mascot will be decided by a committee that consists of alumni, students also some members of the business community.  This is not something the board will decide."

The School Board said it will cost approximately $200,000 to make changes to Southside High School uniforms.  The district does have funds set aside that will be used for the change.

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