News Summary

Over 100 students from Staples High School in Westport demonstrated their support for their fired soccer coach, Russell Oost-Lievense, through a walkout. The spirited rally, attended by parents and supporters, showcased the students’ passion for their coach, highlighting concerns over the Board of Education’s decision and the lack of transparency in the investigation process. Chants like ‘Justice for Russ’ echoed as the community rallied for accountability and change in the school’s administration. This event reflects a significant moment for students advocating for their values and those who support them.

Westport Students Rally for Former Soccer Coach

More than 100 spirited students at Staples High School in Westport took their voices to the forefront last Friday morning when they decided to walk out of their classes. Their mission? To show unwavering support for Russell Oost-Lievense, their former boys’ soccer coach who found himself unexpectedly fired.

The lively demonstration kicked off with students gathering near the North Avenue entrance of the school, armed with colorful signs and chants that echoed their passion and belief in their coach. With messages like “Look after those who look after you” and various slogans celebrating Oost-Lievense, the atmosphere was electric. It was a sight to behold—a vibrant display of youth energy and determination. The event, lasting around 15 minutes, took place entirely on school grounds, ensuring that the students maintained their connection to their education.

In a show of solidarity, over a dozen parents and other supporters also congregated nearby, lending their voices and presence to the cause. It was a clear indication that the community stood united in their love and respect for their coach, who had only recently learned that his contract would not be renewed after three years as head coach.

It all began when Oost-Lievense was informed of the Board of Education’s decision not to renew his contract, a move that sparked outrage among students. After appealing this decision, his efforts were unfortunately in vain. The fallout from this situation came after what was reported to be a lengthy and contentious 14-hour Board of Education meeting, where the primary focus was the alleged verbal altercation between a player and an assistant coach. A significant point of contention was that Oost-Lievense supposedly did not report this incident in a timely manner.

However, many students questioned the fairness of the entire investigation, noting that those who witnessed the incidents were excluded from the discussions. During the rally, students made their feelings known using chants like “Justice for Russ” and “We want Russ back.” They even took it a step further with a phrase aimed at the Superintendent: “Scarice’s gotta go,” highlighting the division between the students and the school administration.

The Board of Education ultimately supported Superintendent Thomas Scarice‘s recommendation to not renew Oost-Lievense’s contract, with a vote tallying at 5-1 in favor of this decision, despite many voicing frustration at the lack of transparency throughout the process.

Many parents and community members expressed their disappointment and dissatisfaction with the Board’s ruling, calling for a change in the administration to better serve the students of Staples High. Students in attendance demonstrated their unity by donning orange as a symbol of their support and have informally adopted the hashtag #WreckersForRuss to further spread their message online.

One of the junior captains of the boys’ soccer team, Dylan Shackelford, reflected the sentiments of many by stating that the walkout was an important stance to hold the administration accountable. His passionate peers echoed these feelings throughout the event.

Adding to the complexity of this situation, reports surfaced that three soccer coaches were suspended amid allegations of physical and verbal misconduct, all linked to a team retreat that occurred last August. With so much at stake, it’s clear that the Westport community is deeply invested in the future of their athletic programs and the well-being of their young athletes.

As these developments unfold, the teachers, parents, and students in Westport remain hopeful that their voices are heard, and they aim to ensure that their school’s core values of support and accountability are upheld for the benefit of all its students.

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