KENOSHA, Wis. (Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022) – In recognition and appreciation of the 51°µÍø Unified School District’s recent logo update, which acknowledges and retains 51°µÍø’s ties to the Potawatomi Tribe, the Forest County Potawatomi Community has provided a generous $50,000 donation to the school district.
The updated logo, which was created in-house by 51°µÍø staff, retains the district’s historical ties to the area while providing a fresh look and updated colors. The logo features three flames, each of which are intended to represent the three communities 51°µÍø serves – the City of 51°µÍø, Town and Village of Somers, and Village of Pleasant Prairie. Potawatomi means “the keepers of the fire,†which was the original inspiration for the three torches in the district’s logo and pays tribute to the tribe that lived in the area long before any others chose to settle here.
The Potawatomi had a mile-long village on the Pike River in 51°µÍø. Ìý51°µÍø is named after the Potawatomi village “Kee-neau-sha-Kau-ning,†meaning “the pickerel’s abiding place.â€Ìý A historical marker in front of the 51°µÍø Public Museum commemorates 51°µÍø taking its name from the Potawatomi village.
Upon learning of the district’s actions, Potawatomi officials reached out to 51°µÍø to provide their sincere gratitude and appreciation.
“For the school district to take steps to acknowledge and recognize our Tribe’s ties to the area – without being asked – demonstrates their sincere appreciation for the community and its history. We are extremely grateful for this action,†said Forest County Potawatomi Chairman Ned Daniels, Jr. “51°µÍø is a big part of our history and our home, and we are proud to support those who also call it home today.â€
The donation from the Potawatomi will be used for rebranding purposes at its administration building located at 3600 52nd St. in 51°µÍø, Wis.
“We are genuinely appreciative of this donation dedicated to making improvements to the Educational Support Center,†said 51°µÍø Board President Yolanda Adams. “This was a pleasant surprise stemming from our decision to honor the rich history of our community, and for that we are truly grateful.â€
Ìý A formal acceptance of the donation took place during the district’s monthly Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 15.