NEPTUNE BEACH, Fla. — A volleyball coach at Fletcher High School has been removed from the position as Duval County Public Schools investigates reports of “unsupervised activities” involving student-athletes.
Sources told Action News Jax the investigation is linked to a suspected hazing incident.
Action News Jax first reported the story Tuesday, when DCPS said it was investigating an incident involving unsupervised activities with student-athletes at Fletcher High School. An update from The district officials Thursday said Principal Dean Ledford met with members of Fletcher High School’s girls volleyball team and their families.
According to DCPS, they discussed the school’s investigation into reports of unsupervised and inappropriate behavior, both on and off campus, among student-athletes.
School leaders made it clear that the behavior is unacceptable and that disciplinary measures are being implemented according to the Student Code of Conduct, the district said.
DCPS said it is also investigating concerns involving the team’s former coach, who was removed from the position while the investigation continues.
Action News Jax went to a volleyball match Thursday at Ponte Vedra High School to speak with Fletcher volleyball parents.
One mother said she did not know about the investigation. A second parent said he had no comment. A third parent, who did not want to appear on camera, did not describe the activities but said he believed the situation was being blown out of proportion.
When asked whether he was concerned for the students, the parent said no. He said the team is full of great girls, that kids were being kids, and that the coach was removed as a result.
DCPS said Ledford will continue to communicate with affected students and families and provide updates as appropriate.
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