MLHS recognized as a "School on the Rise"
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 8 months AGO
Moses Lake High School was recognized as a “School on the Rise" by the Association of Washington School Principals and the Association of Washington Student Leaders. The award was given to the school because of the rebranding from the “Chiefs” to the “Mavericks,” as well as several committees to increase school spirit and celebrate diversity.
NANCE BESTON/COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD
MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake High School has been honored as a 2025 "School on the Rise" by the Association of Washington School Principals and the Association of Washington Student Leaders. This recognition highlights the school’s strides in fostering a culture of inclusivity, leadership and student success, according to a statement from the district.
“Moses Lake High School didn’t just change its mascot — it changed its future,” Principal Sheila Kries said. “We’ve worked hard to build a culture where every student belongs, every voice matters, and every day is a great day to be a MAV.”
The journey toward this recognition began in 2022 when the school transitioned from the "Chiefs" mascot to the "Mavericks" following a request from the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.
“Well, there was, as you've probably seen nationally, there's been a big push nationally to take a look at the sensitivity within the Native American culture,” Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon said. “So there was a discussion that happened within our community, and the Confederated Tribes of Colville requested a switch from the chief's name within Moses Lake School District. We had to look at and go through a complete rebranding process for the school, and the Mavericks name rose to the top of that list and was selected to become the new name of our program at Moses Lake High School.”
This change became a foundational catalyst for a broader cultural transformation, engaging students, staff and administrators in a collaborative effort to redefine school spirit and community values, Shannon said.
Key initiatives contributing to this progress include the creation of the Culture & Climate Committee, which focuses on school-wide improvement; Maverick Days, dedicated events promoting unity and school spirit; Maverick Ambassadors, peer mentors who support new students; and the Colors of the World club, a multicultural group celebrating diversity through art, food and performance.
These programs have yielded measurable improvements, such as increased student attendance and engagement, stronger leadership roles for students, and enhanced on-track rates for ninth graders, Shannon said.
Moses Lake High School is one of only 42 schools recognized across Washington within the "Schools on the Rise" program.
“The award speaks to the incredible work done by our community to uplift, support and ensure that every student feels respected and valued,” said Shannon.
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