Parents, Students Concerned After Lafayette High Cheer Coach Removed
WALKER COUNTY, GA — Parents and students connected to the LaFayette High School cheerleading program say they are devastated following the removal of longtime head coach Nicole Harris, who supporters say spent more than two decades building the program.
Harris served as head coach for 24 years, mentoring student-athletes and helping grow the cheer program at LaFayette High School. Many students and parents say she played a major role in developing the program and supporting athletes both on and off the mat.
Students say the decision has created uncertainty about the future of the program, especially for current team members who had hoped to continue competing under Harris’ leadership.
Parents also praised Harris for the dedication and time she invested in the team over the years, saying she consistently worked to support the athletes and help them succeed.
Walker County Schools Superintendent Damon Raines said Harris resigned from her position. However, several parents say they were told the decision to leave was not voluntary.
Family members and supporters say Harris has been the public face of the LaFayette cheerleading program for many years and believe her removal will have a significant impact on the program.
Some parents also expressed concerns about the leadership expected to replace Harris, saying they believe experience and continuity are important for maintaining the strength of the cheer program. A few students have indicated they may choose not to participate in cheerleading next year.
Parents say they plan to attend an upcoming Walker County Board of Education meeting to voice their concerns and advocate for Harris to be reinstated as head coach.
The situation continues to draw attention from families and members of the LaFayette High School community as discussions about the future of the cheer program continue.