Students protest removal of BHS football coach

While college campuses across the country are filled with protesting students, Bertie County is not out of the fray.

First-year Bertie High School football coach Darrius Wesson has been terminated from his coaching position. The move proved to be the catalyst for the disruption at Bertie High School on Tuesday framed by school officials as a “protest.”

A video posted on social media pictures the halls being filled with students protesting the firing of the coach that brought the team to its first playoff trip in 16 years.

The reason for the termination is considered a personnel matter and nobody is commenting on the removal.

Bertie High school Principal William Peele was more than tight lipped regarding the incident. When asked if there were any altercations or protests in the school on Tuesday, Peele claimed he was “not aware of any,” as media cameras and personal, along with Bertie County Sheriff’s Office vehicles were apparent in the school parking lot.

According to Bertie County Schools Spokesperson Janice Ricks, the students support Wesson and showed that by using their change of class to hold up signs and express their concerns.

Wesson is a graduate of Bertie High where he starred in football. He returned to coach the Falcons last year.

“I’ve wanted to be a coach since college,” Wesson said in an earlier interview. “I am the first former Bertie High standout to coach at the stadium since it’s been named Roy Bond Jr. Stadium. For that I am really proud.”

Wesson could not be reached for comment, but according to Assistant Superintendent Michael White, Wesson is still a CTE instructor at Bertie High School. Plans for a new football coach have not been divulged. Principal Peele could not be reached for further comment.