OWEGO, N.Y. (WENY) - The Owego Apalachin Central School District announced its new mascot on Tuesday, transitioning from its former name, the Indians, to the River Hawks. This change is effective immediately.

The transition comes after New York State's Education Department's ruling that bans the use of Native American nicknames and imagery in educational institutions.

The school district says the decision to choose River Hawks as its new mascot is a reflection of the local environment and wildlife and a tribute to the region's connection to the Susquehanna River and the indigenous people of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, which includes the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora tribes. 

"Our district is dedicated to creating an environment that fosters respect, understanding, and unity among all students," said Superintendent, Dr. Corey Green. "I’d like to thank the members of our various committees, especially those students and staff, who have been the driving force behind gathering and analyzing the thoughts and data collected during this process."

The school district says they are keeping their red and blue color scheme, and are currently working on the design for their new logo. They will also maintain historical documents and artifacts to use for educational purposes.