Students Favor Heritage Over Change
The ongoing mascot debate in Vermont has found new ground at BFA Fairfax, where students recently weighed in on whether to retain their school’s long-standing mascot, “The Bullets.” In a student survey conducted by the school, the majority expressed a desire to preserve the current name. Of the respondents from grades 7 through 12, 126 students responded “very positively” to keeping the mascot, while only 20 expressed strong opposition, and 45 shared mixed opinions. The debate reflects broader conversations across the state about how school symbols should reflect values and community identity.
Students who supported the mascot emphasized tradition and school spirit, while those against it pointed out that the term “bullet” can be perceived as violent and inappropriate, particularly for younger students. Critics argued that associating school pride with ammunition could send the wrong message, even if unintentionally. “Even though bullets may be fast and efficient, it isn’t cool for younger kids to have to say their mascot is a bullet,” one student commented in the survey.
Legal Context and Past Precedents
The discussion around mascots in Vermont intensified following the passage of Act 152 in 2022, a law that prohibits school mascots tied to racial groups, individuals, customs, or traditions deemed offensive. This legislation followed a 2020 statement by the Vermont Principals’ Association (VPA) urging schools to replace any mascot that could be perceived as racist or discriminatory.
Several Vermont schools have already undergone mascot changes in light of these recommendations. Brattleboro Union High School changed from the “Colonels” to the “Bears,” and Rutland High School retired its “Raiders” identity after contentious debates within their communities. However, the case of BFA Fairfax is different. Jay Nichols of the VPA stated that the term “bullets” may not fall under the scope of Act 152. “As for ‘bullets,’ our statement wouldn’t really encompass bullets,” Nichols said, suggesting the mascot does not violate current state policy.
Community Voices and Future Considerations
Within the Fairfax community, opinions remain divided but largely civil. Parent Samantha Slingerland voiced her support for keeping the mascot, noting that supporters are more interested in preserving school heritage than promoting violence. “We don’t want to condone violence. That’s not where people are coming from that are in support of this mascot,” she explained.
Slingerland and others also endorsed a school board idea to add a clarifying slogan to the mascot to help define its intended meaning. “So it’s not just assumed what they’re trying to imply by being a bullet, they’re giving them more of a suggestion on how it should be taken,” she added.
While the BFA Fairfax School Board has decided not to take any action at this time, the issue brings renewed attention to how schools across Vermont—and the country—navigate the fine line between tradition and cultural sensitivity.
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