WACO, Texas — A group of students rallied at Rapoport Academy in Waco Friday to support a middle school basketball coach who was let go from his job.
Students and parents said they were not happy about the school's decision and hoped administrators would consider giving Mike Mitchell his job back.
Rapoport school board member Josh Tetens said it was against school policy to explain why the former coach was fired.
"I don’t think it’s fair,” Destini Stead, a parent, said. “I don’t appreciate not knowing the full details of it. Rapoport is pretty good at giving parents information, and this was completely hush-hush.”
According to Mitchell, he was told by superintendent Alexis Neumann that his coaching style was too aggressive and he was no longer a good fit for the position.
“It was very heartbreaking and hurtful to hear those words come out of her mouth,” Mitchell said.
Students described Mitchell as a mentor.
"Here at Rapoport, they just keep getting rid of teachers that kids love and are doing the right thing," Kai Luke, a Rapoport Academy student, said.
Mitchell is a single father and said he wants to keep his job.
School board members said Mitchell was told he would be fired next school year but could continue his employment until the end of this school year.
Mitchell said he was sent a letter saying he would be on paid administrative leave effective immediately.
"There have been continued disruptions to our school and work environment," the letter read. "It is in the best interest of Rapoport Academy that you not report to work while we investigate the allegations listed in your employee grievance."
Mitchell said he appreciated the students and parents fight to keep him at Rapoport Academy.
"It’s hurtful to have to look those girls in the eye, and they cry because they are losing me," said Mitchell.
Parents said they will continue their fight to keep Mitchell. They plan to attend the April 8 school board meeting to make another plea to the superintendent to reconsider her decision.