Camas school board votes to keep basketball coach

CAMAS — The Camas school board on Monday approved the contract of boys basketball coach Skyler Gillispie for the 2013-14 season by a vote of 3-2.

Some parents of players in the program had previously complained about Gillispie’s behavior, sending school officials a lengthy complaint in February at the conclusion of last basketball season.

In June, The Columbian reported that Mike Nerland, the district superintendent, wrote a letter to parents, explaining that the district’s investigation concluded that Gillispie’s actions at times were inappropriate. After taking steps to improve the behavior, Nerland and other Camas High School officials recommended that Gillispie remain as the head coach. The school board would then have to approve the coach’s contract in the fall.

Some parents and players were unhappy with that recommendation.

Eight basketball players and a handful of parents were at the meeting Monday. None of them spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting.

School board member Doug Quinn spoke before the vote, noting that he gave weight to the players’ concerns.

He also said that he believes Gillispie has made a “sincere effort” to correct the poor behavior, and that there are times in life when people merit second chances.

The board then voted in favor of approving Gillispie’s contract.