News Summary

Around 200 students at Staples High School protested against the Board of Education’s decision to not reinstate their soccer coach, Russell Oost-Lievense. Tensions rose following a lengthy hearing that resulted in a 5-1 vote against his reinstatement. Support for the coach was visible as parents and other supporters rallied behind the students. Concerns about the thoroughness of the investigation into allegations against the coaching staff have led to calls for better treatment of educators within the district.

Westport Students Rally for Fired Soccer Coach

In a spirited display of solidarity, approximately 200 students from Staples High School banded together on Friday morning, staging a protest against the recent decision made by the Board of Education to not reinstate their beloved boys’ soccer coach, Russell Oost-Lievense. The tension peaked after a marathon hearing that lasted a grueling 14 hours at Westport Town Hall earlier that week, where the Board ultimately voted 5-1 against Oost-Lievense’s reinstatement.

The Hearing That Stunned Many

While one Board member, Robert Harrington, stood firmly in favor of Oost-Lievense, a seventh member, Kevin Christie, mysteriously recused himself without offering an explanation. The students, clearly distressed by the outcome, organized a walkout around 9 a.m. on Friday. Principal Stafford Thomas and school staff were there to supervise, while the Westport Police ensured that everything stayed safe and sound, managing access to the school’s parking lot and keeping the media at bay across the street.

A Show of Support

With parents and supporters hovering around, cheering the kids on, it was a heartwarming scene. The school’s administration had previously suspended three soccer coaches due to troubling allegations of physical and verbal assaults related to an incident during the boys’ soccer team’s retreat last August. The uncertainty surrounding these allegations hung thick in the air as rumors circulated for months before taking center stage in a heartfelt address by senior varsity player Jonny Costello in January.

Unraveling the Incident

Costello brought attention to the troubling incident, stating he was subjected to physical assault by an assistant coach. However, he later clarified that he didn’t report the abuse to any school officials. His testimony revealed that the Athletic Director, VJ Sarullo, took action following an anonymous tip, which led to investigations and the non-renewal of the assistant coaches’ contracts.

What Went Down at the Hearing?

The Board meeting was mandated as a legal opportunity to evaluate Oost-Lievense’s case, but ultimately, it led to his dismissal. Throughout the hearing, several officials were interrogated, including Superintendent Thomas Scarice, Principal Stafford Thomas, and Athletic Director VJ Sarullo. Central issues revolved around a conflict that transpired between a player and an assistant coach at the retreat, along with accusations that Oost-Lievense failed to report the incident appropriately.

Concerns in the Investigation

It was revealed that the investigation conducted by school officials was far from thorough, with testimonies from students present at the retreat conspicuously absent. Oost-Lievense’s attorney raised serious concerns regarding the omission of critical evidence and viewpoints that could profoundly shape the understanding of the events. The mediator that oversaw the hearing drew criticism for not allowing vital testimonies and evidence that may have benefitted the coaches’ defense.

Changing Opinions

What’s more, Scarice’s evaluation of Oost-Lievense suffered a significant downturn since 2023, flipping from a positive to negative assessment. This shift was attributed to a perceived “negative environment” surrounding the team. The emotional appeal from Oost-Lievense at the hearing touched many, as he expressed a deep connection to the team and a desire to continue coaching. His heartfelt remarks were met with an overwhelming standing ovation from supporters who witnessed the proceedings.

A Controversial Outcome

The Board’s lawyer stressed that their decision was based on adherence to policy rather than swayed by public opinion. However, Oost-Lievense’s attorney argued that the process was lacking in fairness and due process. Frustration filled the hearts of many attendees, describing the process as resembling a “kangaroo court” and emphasizing the need for accountability in school administration.

Community Concerns Grow

Many voiced their disappointment in how the Board handled the situation, raising serious questions about investigative integrity and transparency. Concerns are growing regarding the treatment of coaches and educators within the district, urging that a change must be made to ensure a fair and respectful environment for all involved.

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