[quote=IInflex]
 I mean, maybe Ive missed a crucial plot point that prevented them from doing these things... 
[/quote]

...You mean the part where they are trying to keep their existence a secret from the muggles, which were a majority of the world's population?

I think magic would've been more liberal in Hogwarts if they didn't have the rule of 'no magic in the corridors', but there's plenty of spellcasting in the common rooms.

Ravenclaw's mascot was a raven, not an Eagle. 

I think we should keep to 4 houses, and therefore four mascots, but I agree that the names can be fixed up a bit. Keep foxglove, perhaps a herbal theme on the names?

Here's a few -
iris characterizes pure heart; courage; faith; inspiration - Griffyndor?
wisteria indicates steadfastness - Hufflepuff?

Here is the full list: http://www.growingandusingherbs.com/meaning-of-herbs-herbs-and-flowers-have-meaning/