There has been a variety of talk about whether or not Pat-Med should have a mascot. In fact, in the past couple of months the administration team has sent out a poll of what mascot we would prefer.

In the poll, there was a total of seven options being considered. The options are the following: Animal (Land), Animal (Air), Knight, Viking, Pirate, and a Spartan. There was also a choice to give your own idea marked as “other.”.

The pirate is one that goes with the theme of the Pat-Med “Raiders.” Although, any of those choices would fit the role perfectly.

The district has not had a mascot in a long time.

So obviously, a mascot is long overdue. I love that the students get to have a say in what the mascot get to be instead of it just being the administration’s choice to make.

It isn’t often that students get to have a role in making these decisions. I believe that it is a refreshing change.

According to Director of Physical Education, Health, Athletics, and Health Services Mr. Anthony Cracco, “The Board of Education Extracurricular Committee, which is leading this initiative, includes student representatives. Their input is an important part of ensuring that the mascot truly represents our school community.”

This is amazing to hear that students can work along side faculty to make this.

Having a mascot is important for a school. It gives the student body something to identify with. Right now, we just have the “PM” logo to represent our school which don’t get me wrong i have no problem with that, but it lacks personality.

With a mascot representing Pat-Med not only would it bring said personality that we so desperately need, but it would also give the students something to cheer for.

That’s why having a mascot would be a positive addition to the district.

One of the other questions asked to him was “why now the right time to finally make a change?”

He responded saying “A mascot will help us continue to grow our culture and build pride in our Raiders program. When I joined Patchogue- Medford, came across an article in the Red & Black discussing the possibility of having a mascot and had an initial conversation with district administrators about it.”

As well as bringing up the point the cheerleading team requires a mascot for their sideline routine. Which made this the perfect time to kick start this process.

Its  great that the original inspiration came from an article by our own students.

It really shows administration is willing to listen to the student body as a whole.

The last question asked was “What does the future look like for expediting this process?”

Mr. Cracco replied stating “The committee plans to analyze the survey results to determine the top choices for our new mascot. From there we will work with professional artists and branding experts to create renderings of the leading options. Once the designs are ready, we’ll hold a community wide vote to finalize the choice.”

It really is wonderful that the entire community gets to have a say in this project. It means a lot to have a say in what goes on in the district.