After suspending an athletic director and head basketball coach after a personnel investigation, Cedar Ridge High School has filled the positions left empty.
Cedar Ridge Principal John Wheeler selected Andy Simmons to be the school’s new athletic director after previously serving as assistant athletic director under Jim Pappas, the former director and basketball coach.
Pappas was suspended with pay Nov. 9 after an incident with a student school officials cannot comment on.
Along with losing his positions as athletic director and basketball coach, Orange County Schools spokesman Michael Gilbert said Pappas’ teaching post was switched from a 12-month to a 10-month position.
According to a press release from the school district, Pappas will lose $28,000 in pay annually because of his change in position.
Wheeler said he chose Simmons because he is dependable and is willing to work with other coaches.
“Simmons has a long list of great qualities and knows a lot about the school,” Wheeler said.
Wheeler also picked science teacher Fred Blanks to become the new head basketball coach. Blanks is the school’s assistant baseball coach. He served as a basketball coach at other schools in the past.
“He’s been there, done that, so his experience will be really good for the team,” Wheeler said.
