TEMPLE, Texas — When Temple Independent School District’s Sampson-Howard Elementary opens its doors next school year, it will do so with a familiar campus mascot. With the closing of the Cater Elementary campus imminent, based on declining neighborhood enrollment, a group of Cater teachers approached district administration about bringing their current mascot with them as they move to Sampson-Howard Elementary. The TISD board of trustees considered the suggestion and made it official at their meeting on January 9th that Sampson-Howard’s mascot will be the Cougar.
“The fact that this incredible idea originated with the Cater staff speaks volumes about their commitment and enthusiasm about opening Sampson-Howard.” said Shannon Gowan, TISD trustee – District 6.
Shannon Myers, TISD trustee – District 7, added, “The idea to carry the mascot forward to the new school is such a thoughtful way to honor the legacy of current and previous students and staff from Cater.”
The board previously selected the school’s colors – blue and gold – and the communications department modified the color of the existing cougar mascot to create the new logo design for Sampson-Howard
“In TISD, we value the voices of our staff and community,” said Dr. Bobby Ott, superintendent of Temple schools. “I am grateful for the trust we have between administration and staff, which facilitates the thoughtful exchange of ideas. This is a shining example of collaboration, trust, and the standard we set for honoring those that came before us.”
Sampson-Howard Elementary is being constructed in the southeast part of Temple to accommodate the rapid growth in that area. The new school was the largest project planned as part of the 2022 Bond passed by voters in May of 2022.