On Thursday, December 18, 2025, Abingdon-Avon School District #276, with the Regional Office of Education #33 and the Full-Service Community School Program, officially unveiled a new mascot for the district. The new mascot, Tommy Tornado, is inspired by the ATOWN Tornado logo and will make appearances at school spirit events, athletic competitions, and community activities at both the middle and high schools. Tommy advances the Full-Service Community School initiative by fostering greater student engagement, enhancing the school climate, and providing more inclusive opportunities for every student.
In early 2025, the ROE’s Full-Service Community School team conducted a comprehensive asset and needs assessment with Abingdon-Avon students, families, and community members. Survey results highlighted the need to boost school spirit, create more inclusive extracurricular opportunities beyond athletics, and enhance community connection with the school district.
The previous mascot costume had become outdated and lacked proper school branding, making it no longer usable. While the Full-Service Community School team and Abingdon-Avon administration led the planning process for the new mascot, students were intentionally included in its rollout. Students now have the opportunity to apply to serve as the mascot or act as a mascot handler. Students also have the opportunity to join the newly created Tommy Tornado Pep Club. The Tommy Tornado Pep Club will build leadership skills while promoting school pride, unity, and positivity throughout both the school and the broader community.
Kathryn Jennings, Regional Superintendent of Schools, spoke highly of the ATOWN Full-Service Community Schools collaboration with ROE #33 on working toward meeting the needs identified in the Asset Needs Assessment for District #276: “School spirit is the heartbeat of small towns, bringing students, families, and neighbors together with a deep sense of pride and belonging. It strengthens the bond between the schools and the community by celebrating the traditions, accomplishments, and shared spirit that make that hometown truly special. I am grateful for the work of our Full-Service Community School team and our collaboration with the Abingdon-Avon School District #276 to make this opportunity for students and the community possible, as it begins its next decade as a consolidated district.”
***Photo courtesy of Abingdon-Avon High School***
