SGASD Explores Its First Official Costumed Mascot

A new Rocket Nation tradition may soon be taking shape, and the Spring Grove community is being invited to help lead the way.

The Spring Grove Area School District has launched a community input survey as it explores developing its first-ever official live, costumed mascot. The mascot would represent the Rockets at school events, athletic competitions, pep rallies, parades, and community celebrations throughout the district.

The initiative originated with students from the Spring Grove Area High School Lighthouse Culture Action Team, who identified the opportunity to create a visible symbol of school spirit and community pride that could unite Rockets across all grade levels and generations.

District officials emphasize that the Spring Grove Rockets name, identity, logos, and traditions are not changing. The project is focused solely on creating a costumed character that reflects the spirit, pride, and energy of the Spring Grove community.

"Students have talked about having an official mascot for years, and we're excited to begin this process by listening to the community we serve," said Dr. Daphne Kirkpatrick, Superintendent of Spring Grove Area School District. "A mascot can become a symbol of pride, belonging, and connection. Because it will represent our school district and community, we believe it's important that students, staff, families, alumni, and community members help shape what it becomes."

The district is currently seeking feedback from Spring Grove Area School District students, staff, families, alumni, and community members through the Rocket Mascot Community Input Survey. Participants are being asked to share ideas on what a Rockets mascot should look like and how it should represent the district's values and personality.

Once the survey closes, the Student/Staff Lighthouse Culture Action Team will review responses. Common themes and ideas will help guide the next phase of the process, which will include a community vote later this summer to help determine the mascot's overall direction.

Additional opportunities for community involvement are planned, including a district-wide mascot-naming contest and a fundraising campaign. The mascot will ultimately be unveiled during a special community celebration.

The mascot project will be funded entirely through donations, sponsorships, and voluntary fundraising efforts. No taxpayer funds will be used for the development of the mascot costume.

"We have always been proud of the support our schools receive from the Spring Grove community," Kirkpatrick said. "This project gives us an opportunity to create something lasting that students, families, alumni, and community members can all take pride in for years to come."

Community members, alumni, and local businesses interested in supporting the mascot initiative through sponsorships, donations, or partnership opportunities are encouraged to contact the district for additional information.

The Rocket Mascot Community Input Survey will remain open through July 9, 2026.