Community member speaks up following Midland Valley football coach controversy

Lauminnia Nivens is one of a number of community members who disapprove of the recent administrative leave of a Midland Valley High School (MVHS) football coach.

Coach Earl Chaptman was placed on administrative leave after being accused of throwing his girlfriend to the ground and taking her debit card and driver's license during an argument.

Chaptman was arrested by Aiken County sheriff's deputies on July 6 and was charged with second-degree domestic violence.

The charges have since been dismissed, and according to the Aiken County Public School District (ACPSD), Chaptman will remain teaching within the district. However, Brent Dorn will serve as interim head coach this season.

ACPSD Board Chairman Cameron Nuessle said there have been no updates beyond this.

Nivens, a member of the Graniteville community, appeared at an ACPSD Board of Education meeting on Tuesday night to speak. “We need to teach our children to value our justice system by showing them that being accused of bad behavior does not make you guilty of bad behavior…anyone and everyone can be accused of things and be wrongfully accused,” she said.

Nivens said that although she does not know Chaptman personally, she believes that students of MVHS have “respect and admiration” for him.

“He has inspired them and encouraged them to do well academically as well as do well in their sports. He makes our kids strive for success both on and off the field,” she said.

Nivens was joined on Tuesday night by an audience of Midland Valley Parents also in favor of the former coach returning to his position.

A petition to reinstate Chaptman as the MVHS football coach is now circulating on Facebook, and at the time of the board meeting had over 400 signatures.

“We’re just here to say tonight that we want our coach back,” said Nivens.