News Summary

West High School has appointed Barron Chandler as the new head football coach while dealing with an investigation into allegations against former coaches. The school is emphasizing student safety and accountability following serious charges against two former assistant coaches. With Chandler’s leadership, the aim is to stabilize the football program and restore trust within the community after recent turmoil.

Exciting Developments in West High School’s Football Program

In a move that has caught the attention of the school community, West High School has appointed Barron Chandler as the new head football coach. This announcement comes amid serious circumstances, as the school is currently grappling with an ongoing investigation related to allegations of abuse involving two former assistant coaches. The situation has understandably raised concerns among parents, students, and staff.

The Story Behind the Investigation

The two assistant coaches, Chad Antwan Brooks and Richard Scott Shaver, are facing criminal charges that include serious allegations of sexual battery as authority figures and aggravated statutory rape. Law enforcement has reported that while these incidents are separate, both involve students which adds a layer of gravity to the situation.

Prior to this shake-up, the former head coach, Lamar Brown, was relieved of his coaching duties. Although he has not been charged with any crimes, he was placed on leave in May and will now be reassigned to a teaching position at another Knox County school. The school district is really taking the matter seriously, having conducted a thorough investigation that extended well beyond just the football team, including examinations of the athletics director and other staff members.

The Findings and Next Steps

Knox County Schools Superintendent, Jon Rysewyk, expressed that there was a significant lack of oversight in the football program at West High. In the wake of the investigation, Brooks, who also worked as an educational assistant, will not return to either his classroom or coaching roles. Shaver will similarly not be returning to any coaching position, as he had no prior assignments in schools.

Additionally, another educational assistant at West has been fired, and one teacher will be reassigned, although the exact reasons behind these actions have not been disclosed. While the internal investigation has reached its conclusion, the Knoxville Police Department continues their criminal investigation, keeping the community on edge as they await further updates.

Commitment to Student Safety

The district has clearly laid out its commitment to ensuring the safety of students and emphasized the importance of accountability in their operations. New oversight measures will be implemented, with plans for additional training for school staff to ensure adherence to policy and proper procedure in the hiring process. This will involve close collaboration between the district’s athletic director and human resources.

Football History and Future

West High School’s football program has a storied history, celebrated for clinching the TSSAA Class 5A state championship in years 2014, 2022, and 2023. The team notably achieved a flawless season record of 15-0 during the 2022 campaign. In this time of turmoil, there’s hope for revitalization as Barron Chandler steps into his new role.

Embracing the Future with Barron Chandler

Principal Ashley Speas has expressed confidence in Coach Chandler’s experience and dedication to the team, believing he can provide the stability needed to guide the football program through these troubled waters. The community, especially, has a strong connection to the past coach, Lamar Brown, with many students and parents acknowledging his mentorship and leadership within the school.

As the dust settles and the program moves forward, the focus will be on creating a safe, positive environment for students and ensuring that the lessons learned from this investigation lead to lasting improvements in oversight and support for the West High School football team.

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