Parents and community members urge board to back former coach amid resignation, cite mentorship and accountability

Multiple community members used the meeting's public comment period on Sept. 25 to address the board about the recent resignation of the Port Angeles High School basketball coach, urging support for the coach and criticizing what they called a lack of transparency about the circumstances. Speakers who addressed the board included Ray Vera of 92 Lofer Lane, Port Angeles; Shane Abel of 4219 S. Cedar Mill Road; Chelsea Williams of 1038 W. Fifteenth St.; and Rebecca (Becca) Parker of 1137 W. Eighth St. Several members recounted personal experiences in which the coach provided encouragement and mentorship to students recovering from injury or struggling academically. Commenters framed the coach's approach as demanding but developmentally focused — teaching accountability, work ethic and character — and said parents and the broader community should not allow the complaints of a few to override the contributions reported by many. One reader submitted a letter from Kyle Ward that described the coach as a district pillar and urged the board to reflect on how the district retains staff who serve as mentors. Board members clarified during public comment that the transcript records the coach's resignation as accepted by the district; the board noted that resignation had been recorded and indicated no administrative action was taken during the meeting. Commenters asked for greater transparency and for the district to consider how it supports coaches and mentors who have lasting influence on students. The board did not act during the meeting on any personnel matter related to the coach; commenters urged the board to review retention and communication practices outside the public meeting.