As of July 1, 2025 GFW Public Schools has officially launched an updated brand and mascot as The GFW Firebirds with a freshly revamped logo and brand guide.
In 2023, the Minnesota Legislature passed a law to end the use of Native mascots in Minnesota public schools. All districts and charter schools were instructed to consider mascots and potential connection to this legislation. GFW began using the Thunderbird mascot when the district was formed in 1992. The Thunderbird is a legendary creature in particular North American indigenous peoples' history and culture and is considered a supernatural being of power and strength. Several tribal nations have a connection to the thunderbird including Algonquian, Ojibwe, Menominee, Siouan, Ho-Chunk, and more.
The district surveyed staff, students, and community members with a variety of options for consideration and the top choice in every demographic group was the Firebird. The GFW School Board officially took action on approving the change in May of 2024 and the district worked closely with the design team who provided the last logo in creating the new identity.
“Being that I grew up here and have proudly been a part of this district as a staff member for 25 years, it initially felt a little strange to have to face this change,” said Director of Technology and Online Learning Wade Werner. “Ultimately it was really a great time for this sort of change to take place because our district is really rising up and transforming into a new beast in some ways. It feels right to be the GFW Firebirds!”
The Red Firebird is often associated with the legendary Phoenix and is found in various mythologies, particularly in Greek and Slavic folklore. It's known for its vibrant red and gold feathers and is associated with immortality and renewal.
One community member shared on Facebook, “I'm so glad the name Firebirds won. A firebird with red feathers symbolizes rebirth, transformation, and renewal often through trials, as small school districts often face. The overall visual rhetoric of the contrasting red and black evokes emotion, energy, and excitement. Kudos to the graphic designer!”
Keep an eye out for updated merchandise and more Firebirds rising throughout the community this year.