Kennedy High School in Burien has changed its name to John F. Kennedy Catholic High School.

Principal Mike Prato commented, "Our name change is not about defining who we are with a word, but going back to our roots and being proud of our Catholic identity."

Soon after Prato became principal in 2004, talks began about changing Kennedy's name.

In 2007, school staffers held focus groups with constituents to get their opinions on the possible change.

The focus groups supported adding "Catholic" to the Kennedy name and, in 2008, the change was approved.

As the school begins its ten-year strategic plan, Prato said he knew this would be the best time to institute the change.

"Kennedy was created as an extension of the parish community," Prato noted. "Adding the word 'Catholic' to our name clearly communicates our legacy and purpose in the community."

Kennedy has also adopted a new logo.

"We wanted a logo that would invoke emotions from our student body, staff and alumni," Jim Mesick, advancement director said.

The new logo shows a head-on view of a knight on horseback wearing a flowing red cape while holding a shield and lance pointed outward.

The former logo featured a black and white side view of a knight on horseback with a shield and lance.