PROTECTING THE TRADITION by Protecting the Logo
T
ypically high school logos are based on tired clip art renditions or are reincarnations of professional spor ts team mascots. As our world gets smaller through the lens of social media, mascots are being viewed by more than local fans. Creating a notable design can protect a school district or campus from being accused of a copyright infringement. Having an original logo can also result in revenue opportunities through licensing. One of the most unique and recognizable high school logos is that of the Carroll Independent School District and its beloved Dragon. The lightning boltbreathing dragon was originally inspired by the insignia of the U.S. Navy Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ-130), also known as the “Zappers.” These squadrons were deployed aboard aircraft carriers based throughout the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Various incarnations of Dragons had been used in the past at Carroll schools, but one permanent logo was needed. In the early 1980s, the VAQ-130 logo was modified into the official logo for the Carroll High School Dragons. The logo features an intimidating dragon clawing his way up from the clouds sending lightning bolts out toward all competitors. Placed atop the state of Texas, this new dragon logo eventually became the mascot of all Carroll ISD schools. As the district grew and Carroll students excelled in athletics, academics, fine arts and other pursuits, the Dragon logo became more recognizable. In 2003, the Dragon logo was trademarked with the office of the Secretary of State of Texas. This gave Carroll ISD the right to protect the logo for unauthorized use and license the trademark to others for
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