When the school announced it was changing its COVID-inspired motto, most teachers never expected the backlash that followed. What was once a source of pride, stemming from some of the darkest years and carried on, has now become the center of a heated debate.
The school’s decision sparked a wave of questions. Is it time to update the past, or should certain traditions remain untouchable. Since we got back from COVID, the high school has ended morning announcements with the motto, “Stay safe, stay healthy, go Cubs.”
This year, that familiar send off was changed, and many students were quick to notice. According to Raquel “Kelly” Hawkins, the decision came from the administration.
“Our SBLT (Department Heads and Admin) wanted to change it to reflect our current school expectations of Be Safe, Be Responsible, Be Respectful,” Hawkins said. “They met over the summer and sent me the changes.” Hawkins admitted she was surprised by how strongly students reacted. “Honestly, I thought it was so funny.
“Why did they make such a thing about ‘Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and GO CUBS’? I will never understand.” Despite that, Hawkins emphasized the importance of student voice. “I love that our students feel confident. I believe this is a good thing to do as long as it’s appropriately done, and if they are reasonable, if they don’t get their way. That’s life, I hope that they keep questioning and offering solutions to things.”
Hawkins also shared that attempts to change the slogan had been made before.
“Well, honestly, I was also ready to change it and tried to change it with the ASB kids the past couple of years to something else more positive and promoting kindness,” she said.
“But the kids always wanted to keep the COVID send-off, so I am not at all surprised. The old one was just soooo catchy and fun. We all know it.”
From the student perspective, senior Jordan Janicki said the change altered the tone of the school day. “For me, the biggest effect has been the overall tone at the end of the announcements,” Janicki said. “The old ending felt more upbeat, and it helped set the mood for the day.”
Janicki explained why the original slogan mattered to students.
“The old version had a rhythm or feel that everyone was used to, and it created a sense of routine,” Janicki said.
“The new ending feels more plain, and it does not create the same energy that used to help start the day.”
However, not all students disagreed with the decision. One student in an online survey conducted by The Cub said, “Well, because it is more applicable to our current school goal, and I believe the one we currently read was a better fit during COVID.”
Another added, “I prefer that we keep the announcements aligned with our school-wide behavior expectations, which are around being safe, respect-
ful, and responsible.”
As the discussion continues, the reaction to the announcement change has shown how meaningful even small traditions can be. Whether the slogan changes again or not, one thing is clear. Students are listening, and they care deeply about their school culture.
