The Rogers School Board voted 5-1 Friday to uphold the superintendent’s recommendation to terminate the coaching contract of Trace Briggs, Heritage High’s softball coach.
Briggs was terminated because of his conduct and language as softball coach, including an altercation in 2011 involving Briggs and David Edmiston, whose daughter Michelle plays on the team.
In addition, a statement Briggs made to his team was a factor. “They stuck it up your butts and you liked it,” Briggs said following a loss to Springdale Har-Ber on March 15 of this season, according to a termination letter Briggs initially denied making that statement, but later admitted saying something similar, according to the letter sent to him on April 18.
Briggs’ termination is only from his coaching duties. He has already signed a contract to return as a social studies teacher, said David Matthews, the school district’s attorney.
Briggs was suspended without pay for a day, then suspended from one varsity game last season, according to the termination letter.
“You were put on notice that your behavior would be closely monitored and further examples of poor judgment, lack of leadership and lack of professionalism could result in a recommendation for termination or non-renewal,” the letter reads.
Board member Lisa Anderson was absent and board member Kristen Cobbs cast the lone vote against terminating Briggs’ contract.
The board conducted a three-hour closed session hearing Monday night and deliberated for more than three additional hours in executive session, but could not reach a decision. The group returned Thursday and deliberated for more than 90 minutes before reaching a decision.
Briggs’ termination is only from his coaching duties. He has already signed a contract to return as a social studies teacher, said David Matthews, the school district’s attorney.