Board recognizes DARE officers and Coffee High girls basketball team after 27–2 season

The Coffee County Board of Education recognized two law-enforcement officers who completed DARE training and celebrated Coffee High School’s girls basketball team for a 27–2 season and a Region 258 championship during the March 20 meeting.

Chief Chris Elrod introduced the DARE recognition and said the class is rigorous, lasting about one to two weeks with long hours; Superintendent Donald Lewis and others thanked the officers for volunteering. Officers Crockett and Wolferson graduated from the course; Lewis said Crockett graduated as the class’s star student. The board and staff said the DARE program will resume next school year, with school officers delivering instruction.

Athletic Director Steve White and Region Coach Foster Kellogg, who leads basketball operations for sixth through 12th grade, described the girls program as built on a multi-year foundation of offseason workouts, weight training, camps and travel that helped the team compile a 27–2 record and reach the state Sweet 16. Kellogg said the program asks players to maintain high academic standards — she said the coaches require an 80 or above average and monitor progress reports and report cards — and that fall, spring and summer workouts contributed to the season’s success. Individual honors presented included co–player of the year Lexi Black Bratford, defensive player of the year Tyreuna Woodgate and others listed to first team and honorable mention.

Board members presented certificates of appreciation for board service to trustees and accepted congratulations for the team’s achievements.