The controversy over the Confederate flag has spilled over to whether the "Rebels" mascot is appropriate for West Monroe High School.
The 'West Monroe High School Rebel Mascot Change' Facebook page is calling for a new nickname for the school. A post on the site states their message is: "we have seen the rebel mascot and partnering Confederate flag cause much harm to family, friends, and business associates."
Shane Acree, a 1989 West Monroe alumnus, created a counter page titled 'Hands Off My West Monroe High School Mascot.' Acree says the mascot, as with any other high school, is a source of tradition. "There's a lot of pride, there's history and prestige. It isn't any different," said Acree.
There's a lot of pride, there's history and prestige.
Acree says there has been no serious consideration from Ouachita Parish Schools about nickname. He says the school is steeped in generational pride, where current students and alumni don't want a change.