To: hopkins.sau54@rochesternh.net
Sent: Monday, February 27, 2006 12:30 PM
Subject: Policy on School Mascots

Hello Mr. Hopkins,

My name is Peter Sanfacon and I am a 1977 graduate of Spaulding High School. As you know, Spaulding has used the name "Red Raiders" for many years. This was the case when I attended in the 1970's and was the case for decades before my time, and it is still the case in 2006. In fact, a visit to the school website's Athletics page will display rather prominently the "Red Raider" logo (the head of a somber Native American with a bright red face).

I've sent a letter to Robert Pedersen, the principal at Spaulding, regarding this issue. His response to my first letter included a statement that he feels the school is honoring Native Americans. My second letter to him and another to Athletic Director David Colson have gone unanswered.

As educators, do you not feel a certain responsibility to portray all peoples in a positive light? Or at least to take steps to end all negative portrayals?

As the Superintendent of Schools, do you have a policy on this issue? Has the School Board addressed the issue of racial symbols at the high school?

I have attached an email I received from the NH State Dept. of Education regarding their 2002 resolution.

Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Kind regards,

Peter Sanfaçon
Spaulding Class of 1977

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