School board removes Redskin mascot

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – The Oklahoma City school board has voted to remove the Redskins mascot at Capitol Hill High School.

The board voted 8-0 Monday night to remove the mascot after hearing from students, teachers and a district official who said the nickname is offensive and harmful – especially to American Indian students.

The Oklahoman reports that the meeting broke out in cheers, applause and hugs after the vote.

District administrators will immediately eliminate the Redskins mascot. District spokeswoman Tierney Tinnin said a committee of students, alumni and community members will be chosen to select a new mascot by the end of the spring semester.