RICHMOND HEIGHTS Although seemingly satisfied with the removal of Richmond Heights varsity boys’ basketball head coach Jason Popp for the remainder of the season, some still are leery of his possible return in the future.

Popp came under investigation last week for allegedly making racial slurs and derogatory statements to the players throughout the season. Superintendent Dr. Linda Hardwick met collectively Feb. 9 with Popp, players and coaches to analyze the situation. Popp was accompanied by an attorney from the Richmond Heights Education Association.

Hardwick announced the following day Popp would be relieved of his duties as coach for now, but may be able to return next year as head coach if he undergoes sensitivity training. He was also told the training would be district-wide.

At the administration building Feb. 10, a source speaking on condition of anonymity said Popp asked Hardwick to put her decision in writing before she informed the media, so he could have it for his attorney. Hardwick was said to have told Popp he could trust her, and went out to address the media.

“I, and others who were present at the time, encouraged her to wait but she went ahead anyhow in speaking to the media,” said board member Aaron Burko.

At Monday nights’ school board meeting, Hardwick said she would need more time to analyze the situation before making any further decision on Popp’s future as head coach.

“I am satisfied with this decision and just happy to see the boys get back out there,” said Nneka Jackson, mother of junior player Kareem Rock, Feb. 10. “They stood up for themselves and let their voices be heard.”

Jackson asked Hardwick Monday night to consider that many of the boys would still be in the program for the next three years. Hardwick assured her all matters would be taken into consideration.

Board President Josh Kaye said the decision is a day-to-day operation specific to an employee which would lie in the superintendent’s hands.

“If her decision is ever disputed or brought forth in an appeal, the board cannot have any direct involvement of the disciplining of the employee and would have to remain neutral,” said Kaye. “It depends where the situation goes after the superintendent makes her decision, but from there the board can have no direct involvement.”

The meeting was well attended and some spoke favorably in support of Popp. Resident Claudette Whitner, who has assisted the district in levy campaigns and worked with Popp, was one who spoke in his favor.

“I never heard anybody claim he was racist,” said Whitner. “I don’t know what was said but I know the man and I want to say that he is not a racist,”

Popp did not attend the board meeting Monday night and in the interim the team is being coached by assistant coach Don Gross.