Public urges RSU 20 to reinstate John Fry; board moves to executive session and recommends him as varsity coach

Dozens of residents, parents and students on Tuesday pressed the RSU 20 school board to reinstate John Fry as the boys varsity baseball coach, and the board moved into executive session on personnel before recording a motion that passed 4-1 recommending Fry for the role.

The comments came during the public comment period at the RSU 20 School Board meeting, where speakers from former players to longtime residents described Fry as a mentor and an enduring presence in local athletics. "He puts his kids way before his health and other commitments," said Mr. Baggley, who earlier described a prior vote as "one yes, two no, and two abstensions" and called abstentions puzzling.

Tenny Spiegel, who identified himself as a RSU 20 staff member and Searsport resident, said Fry had apologized for earlier behavior and urged the board to restore him as coach. "As humans, we are imperfect beings," Spiegel said. "Owning our mistakes demonstrates integrity. And Coach Fry has an abundance of it." Several students also spoke: Jacob Bragden, a current player, said the uncertainty had deeply affected teammates and pleaded for stability so the program could continue and an assistant coach could step up later.

A board member acknowledged the respectful tone of public remarks but reminded attendees that personnel matters can include confidential information the board must weigh. The board member said abstentions can reflect conflicts of interest or insufficient information. Following that discussion, a board member moved to recommend John Fry as the varsity baseball coach and to enter executive session under 1 MRSA 405(6)(A) to discuss employment matters; the motion was seconded and, when the board later voted, passed 4-1. The chair announced, "The motion passes 4 to one. Mr. Fry will take over." The meeting recessed at approximately 6:36 p.m. and later adjourned.

Why it matters: The appointment affects student-athletes, season continuity and mentorship opportunities in the district. Commenters repeatedly tied Fry's presence to player development and community tradition; board members signaled that some personnel details remain confidential and informed their vote. Next steps: The board carried the motion and entered executive session; the meeting record shows the recommendation and a 4-1 vote but cites personnel confidentiality for withheld details.