I write in regard to the recent events at McCurdy Charter School, whereby the coach was fired and the football program discontinued.
I was born and raised in Española and am very proud to say that. I attended Española schools and my children attended both Española School District and McCurdy Schools. Two of my daughters graduated from McCurdy High School. I was very involved with McCurdy when my children were attending. I was honored to serve on the McCurdy School Board.
My concern is that we are allowing differences of opinion between coaches and administration to come before focusing on what really matters and that is the students. I know we are better than that. My main concern is for the students.
The football coaches who were recently terminated are strong role models for the students. They volunteer their time and efforts for the benefit of the young adults attending school at McCurdy and that is how they get rewarded? Again, we are better than that.
I took it upon myself to review the school’s handbook that describes the dos and don’ts of the athletic program. I discovered a significant discrepancy regarding what the handbook states, versus how it is being interpreted and applied.
I refer specifically to the McCurdy Charter School Athletic Handbook, Section IV, 4.2 Goals of the Athletic Coordinator, pages 7-8 and Section V, Inter Scholastic Athletic Program, c. Criteria to be considered prior to the termination of an Interscholastic Sport or Activity, page 9.
My recommendation is either change the handbook or change the administration that is enforcing it in an ill manner. As this recommendation is being considered, keep in mind that the focus and question to be answered is: What is best for the young adults?
The reputation of McCurdy Charter School is in jeopardy. Let us not stain that for selfish reasons.
Rudy Valdez
San Pedro