Board weighs policy to bar athletic directors from coaching; members discuss timing and exemptions

District staff presented a draft policy on Jan. 8 that would prohibit athletic directors employed by Roanoke County Public Schools from serving as a coach for any athletic team in the division, intended to preserve a separation of oversight and mitigate conflicts of interest.

Dr. Jamie Soltis said legal counsel reviewed the proposed language. Board members split on the measure: some supported codifying what they described as existing best practice and noted possible conflicts over facility use and complaints, while others warned that a broad ban could worsen an already difficult coach‑recruiting environment for some sports. Members discussed whether the restriction should apply to all coaching positions or only to head coaches, and whether current ADs who also coach should be grandfathered through their existing season.

Several members suggested adoption language that sets the policy effective July 1, 2025 so it would not remove coaches mid‑season. The chair recommended the adoption motion at the next meeting specify the delayed effective date. Staff will place the policy on the next agenda as an action item for a formal vote.