Parents, players tell board Coach Childs should remain; several students recount mentorship and program successes

Multiple parents and students used the public comment period on April 8 to urge the Lake Pend Oreille School District Board of Trustees not to accept the resignation of the boys basketball coach and to emphasize the coach’s role as a mentor.

Parent Corey Joe told the board his family arrived in the district four years ago and that the coach had helped elevate the program, citing a district championship, a state appearance and a coach‑of‑the‑year award. "Under coach Brian Childs, his leadership...the program has thrived," Joe said, adding that the coach "drives an hour to work back and forth every day" and has built strong relationships with players and parents.

Several students also spoke. One student who identified himself as a senior and team captain described personal changes while playing under the coach: "He held me accountable, pushed me hard to work, and believed in me in ways I didn't realize at the time," the student said. Another student said the coach gave him a chance to develop from a non‑starter into a varsity player.

Parent Shani Yarbrough, speaking on behalf of other parents, said the coach had "consistently put the team first" and stressed the broader character development the coach promoted. Parent Christy Corbett described the coach’s year‑round availability and mentorship and said it had positive effects on her son’s choices and behavior.

The public comment rules were read before the speakers were recognized; the board did not respond to comments during the forum beyond thanking speakers and moving on to the agenda. No board action on coaching staff was recorded in the meeting minutes or transcript excerpt.