Parents and community criticize timing of Central High varsity football cancellation; district cites safety

Superintendent Dr. Lathan told the Board of Education that, based on roster numbers observed after the first official week of high‑school practice, the district had to cancel Central High School’s varsity football season for the fall on safety grounds. Lathan said numbers dwindled to four seniors and six juniors and that coaches and administrators were concerned about students’ safety competing against other conference teams.

Public comment that followed was strongly critical of the timing and communications surrounding the decision. Chad Rollins, speaking for parents and community supporters, said a Change.org petition had "2,500 plus signatures" and urged reconsideration; other speakers described learning the decision via social media and called the district’s rollout ‘‘horrible’’ and ‘‘not transparent’’ in tone. Cheryl Clay said most students and parents learned the news through social media rather than district channels and called the rationale “a stretch.”

Dr. Lathan said the decision was made with student safety in mind and emphasized that other extracurriculars — JV play, band, cheer, Poms and related activities — will continue and that the district will support affected students; officials encouraged community support for students and coaches. Board members and staff said they are working with families and student‑athletes to mitigate impacts and suggested recognition of the affected seniors and opportunities for involvement.

The board did not reverse the decision during the meeting; the superintendent said the district hopes to reinstate a varsity season in the next school year if conditions change.