Fate Of Coach Who Used Racial Slurs Is Still Uncertain

The fate of a coach sidelined for making racist remarks to players remained uncertain Monday night.

Richmond Heights High School Boys Varsity Basketball Coach Jason Popp was suspended in February for allegedly using the N-word and using racially demeaning language toward players. Popp has since re-applied for the position as well as the girls basketball coaching job.

Superintendent Dr. Linda Hardwick said she would not approve Popp. She planned to recommend Jason Priah for the position Monday night, but that never happened.

After closed door discussions, the board emerged from their two and half hour executive session with no decision.

They tabled the topic until the next meeting saying there is additional information to review.

At issue, Popp is the only union member to apply for the coaching jobs, and as such gets preference on the position, per the union contract.

The other candidate is not a union member. But parents argued that is not exactly true.

"Our research as parents shows he disqualified himself based on state rules and regulations as well as the union contract, specifically from the Ohio Department of Education. 'Any emotional abuse or inappropriate language deems a person unprofessional,'" said Frank Barber.

Parents spoke out at the meeting and say they will continue to do so until the board makes the "right" decision.

"I'm here to support the kids," said Alvin Fulton, "If someone talks down to you all the time it gets to you after awhile."

Popp had been head coach of the Spartans since 2007 and before that was assistant coach for 12 years.

The team had a winning record under Popp, and even without him this past season finished 24 -1 after losing in regional competition.

But parents say none of that matters if the players are being disrespected.

"We shouldn't have to go through this today. It should be right is right, and do your job. We just want professionalism," said Rick Early.