-
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart pictured with former Baldwin High School head coach Jesse Hicks. | FILE PHOTO
Updated on Nov. 21
Baldwin High School’s Head Coach Jesse Hicks confirmed to The Baldwin Bulletin Thursday, Nov. 16 that he was dismissed from his coaching duties by school administration.
Hicks did not give any knowledge of the reason towards why he was let go nor any mention of the “uproar” students reportedly caused upon hearing of his dismissal, according to social media posts.
Hicks returned to Baldwin County in 2017 after previously coaching in the district from 2002-2009. Over 15 seasons, he led Baldwin to the playoffs 14 times. Baldwin was 40-36 in the last seven seasons led by Hicks, who has a 133-108 overall career record in 22 seasons at three schools across Georgia.
As of Friday at 4:35 p.m., the Baldwin County School District released a statement regarding Hicks' removal.
“The school administration has decided to go in a different direction with the football program for the next school year," wrote Eric Jones, coordinator of School and Community Relations. "We thank Coach Jesse Hicks for his years of service to the Baldwin High School Athletic Program and look forward to his continued tenure as a teacher with the Baldwin County School District."
According to the statement, several students were involved in a "disruptive demonstration" Thursday afternoon in the cafeteria. Baldwin County Sheriff’s deputies and School Resource Officers were on hand and moved students out of the cafeteria. No students or staff were injured, according to the school’s statement.
"We asked parents to speak with their students to let them know that disruption of the normal school day can not be tolerated," wrote Jones. "The safety and security of our students and staff are of the utmost importance, and we will always strive to provide the best protection possible to all."
We originally reported here that Hicks was let go by the Baldwin County School District. The Baldwin County School District, however, confirmed within their statement that Hicks is relieved of his coaching duties but will continue his tenure as a teacher.