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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 14, 2026
The Metropolitan School District of Decatur Township is proud to announce a comprehensive rebranding initiative that reflects the district’s enduring values, vibrant community, and vision for the future of education. The new branding, at the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year, includes a refreshed district logo, a new “Hawk” mascot, and updated logos for each elementary school—uniting all schools under a cohesive visual identity that celebrates Decatur’s legacy and bright future.
A Fresh Take on a Classic: The New District Logo
The new district logo (first unveiled in August 2025) is a thoughtful, timeless evolution of Decatur’s familiar identity. The logomark features three students in different stages of their academic journey walking together on a path beneath a rising sun, a symbol of growth, hope, and the promise of tomorrow.
Each figure represents the heart of Decatur’s mission: the younger students look up to the graduate, who in turn serves as a friend, guide, and mentor, embodying the district’s spirit of connection and mentorship.
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The logotype honors the structure of the previous logo while incorporating the lettering style of Decatur’s widely recognized athletic “DC” monogram. The district’s colors of Navy and Vegas Gold, now standardized across district logos, replace the former palette to create a consistent, unified look.
Together, the imagery and colors symbolize Decatur students as well-prepared learners walking toward tomorrow, their path representing the journey they take through Decatur Township Schools, one that leads forward while keeping them connected to the community that shapes them.
A Refreshed Symbol of Pride: The “Decatur Proud” Logo
Few symbols are as meaningful to Decatur as the “Decatur Proud” logo. More than just an image, it has become a staple of community identity, a declaration of confidence in the district’s mission and pride in its people. This beloved logo has been refreshed to align with the district’s updated color palette of Navy and Vegas Gold, visually connecting “Decatur Proud” to the broader family of district designs. While its look has been modernized, its message remains unchanged: Decatur Proud is who we are.
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The Return of the Hawk: A Symbol of Strength and Spirit
After several years without an official mascot design, Decatur proudly introduces a new “Hawk” — a bold emblem of focus, determination, and excellence. 
Inspired by Indiana’s most common raptor, the red-tailed hawk, the new design was carefully crafted to reflect the district’s heritage and forward-looking spirit. The artwork draws from a legacy sketch beloved by the community and reimagines it with a regal, traditional style.
Rendered in Decatur Navy and Vegas Gold with the addition of a new supporting color, Tempest Gray, the hawk’s sharp, focused gaze reflects the intelligence and determination of both the red-tailed hawk and Decatur’s students.
The new Hawk logo will proudly represent Decatur Central High School, Decatur Middle School, and the Decatur Township School for Excellence, creating a strong visual link among the secondary schools.
Elementary Logos: Honoring Identity, Building Unity
The third phase of the rebranding introduces updated logos for each elementary school. While a few incorporate younger versions of the Hawk, most feature distinct mascots that reflect each school’s individual history and identity.
Every design was created with care to ensure the collection feels cohesive and family-like. Each is unique, yet unmistakably Decatur. Together, these logos celebrate the district’s history and unity, giving every school its own symbol to take pride in while reinforcing their shared connection to the district’s mission and values. To view the refreshed school logos, click here.
Partnership with K12 Licensing for District Trademark Licensing Program
The MSD of Decatur Township has now partnered with K12 Licensing to manage and administer the district’s Trademark and Licensing Program. This partnership strengthens brand protection and control while generating royalty revenue from authorized merchandise sales.
Vendors or individuals wishing to produce and sell products featuring MSD of Decatur Township schools’ logos, names, or other trademarks must obtain an official license through K12 Licensing. The process requires submitting an application and product samples for approval. Approved vendors may then purchase official K12 Licensing hangtags and labels for use on products sold at retail.
K12 Licensing is the nation’s oldest and largest high school licensing agency, serving more than 5,800 schools and 30 state associations including The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) as its official licensing partner. K12 Licensing returns millions of dollars in royalty revenue to partner schools annually, supporting educational programs and initiatives.
Vendors or individuals interested in obtaining a license are encouraged to contact:
Brandon Tucker, Director of K12 Licensing, btucker@k12licensing.com or 317-504-5400
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About MSD Decatur Township
The MSD of Decatur Township is student invested,community connected. Decatur Township prioritizes student learning, safety and customer service, and fostering a support system for our families. Located on the southwest side of Indianapolis, Decatur Township is proud to serve thousands of elementary, middle, and high school students and families. The district vision is Preparing Students to be Tomorrow Ready. Together, we are DECATUR PROUD! Learn more at www.decaturproud.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Emily LeMay, Director of Student & Family Engagement
MSD of Decatur Township
elemay@decaturproud.org
317-856-5265