One Rabbit. One District. One Community.

Before the first kickoff, before the band takes the field and before the cheerleaders lead the crowd, one Rabbit is already at work.

From greeting young students at a primary School event to rallying fans beneath the Friday night lights, Atlanta High School junior Kaleigh Haskins represents something unique about Atlanta ISD. Because the Rabbit is the mascot for all four campuses, she does not represent only the high school. She represents an entire district.

“My job as the mascot is to lift people up,” Kaleigh said. “I want to bring energy to our teams, our students and our fans. When everyone is excited together, it just makes you feel good.”

Her involvement extends well beyond the mascot suit. Kaleigh serves as executive president of Student Council, plays trumpet in the band and competes in DECA, UIL Calculator Applications and archery. She hopes to pursue a career in sports medicine or athletic training.

Each activity has given her another place to contribute and another group of people to call family.

“It feels like one organization, one family,” she said. “I love everything I get to do with the people around me.”

For Kaleigh, one of Atlanta ISD’s greatest strengths is that students have the freedom to explore their interests, discover their strengths and be themselves.

“It doesn’t matter how you’re different,” she said. “Everyone can find a place to belong.”

Whether she is encouraging a kindergartner at a campus celebration, leading her classmates through Student Council, performing with the band or entertaining the crowd on a Friday night, Kaleigh connects students who may be separated by campuses and grade levels but share the same school colors, traditions and pride.

At Atlanta ISD, the Rabbit is more than a mascot.

It's a symbol for a community where every student has a place.