The name Táawila was taken from the language of the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, who have inhabited the Menifee Valley and adjacent areas of Riverside County for thousands of years. In fact, the rocky hill that towers above the site of the school is considered sacred land by local Native Americans.
Táawila (TAH-we-la) in the Native American language, translates to "gathering or sitting place." Back in time, the hills surrounding Audie Murphy Ranch were once a sacred gathering place for members of the Pechanga tribe and now Táawila Elementary School will be a gathering place for our students, their families, staff and the local community.
Our school colors are sage green and burnt orange.
Knowing that symbols are very significant to the Native American community, the symbols for our logo were selected with great care and respect for the culture of our namesake. It was important to create a school logo that embodied who we are and who we intend to be as a school community, as a Táawila Tribe.
The arrow was very important to the Native Indians. The bow and arrow enabled the Indians to hunt the animals which would provide their food, clothing, weapons and tools. As a symbol, the arrow represents moving toward your goals, and not working backwards. It has the idea of movement, power, and of heading in a direction with purpose.
The feather symbolizes trust, honor, strength, wisdom, power, and freedom. Native Indian warriors were awarded a feather when they were particularly brave in battle. To be given a feather means being gifted or rewarded by a high official and as a reminder of their victory, they should take utmost care and always wear it for the whole tribe to see.
The Bear symbol is central in the Native American culture as it represents a protector and symbolizes courage, strength and leadership. Bears are clan animals who are strong, agile, and quick. The black bear and the Grizzly were native to North America. The bear cub was selected as our school mascot to symbolize the above mentioned traits, but also because the idea of community is so vital to creating a gathering place where all involved really want to be, to grow, and to be a part of a tribe of learners that inspire greatness, courage and leadership.
You will hear us use the term, PAWS UP Cubs often. PAWS UP is a call to get into the “ready” position, eager to take on the task at hand and/or do the right thing. PAWS UP denotes an agile and quick, can do attitude. PAWS UP also stands for:
Personal best
Academic excellence
Work together
Safety and respect
Unity
Pride
PBIS provides a focus on taking a team-based, systematic approach where we teach appropriate behaviors to all students in the school. The goal is to create a positive school climate, in which students learn and grow.