MT ULLA, N.C. -- A former West Rowan coach and teacher resigned after an altercation with a student in April. Some students rallied in support of Coach Lee Linville after a video surfaced showing a fight in a classroom.
The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office started an investigation after video of an altercation was shared among students at West Rowan High School. Many students rallied around Coach Lee Linville. Former Head Football Coach Scott Young, a leader in the West Rowan community who is waiting for a heart transplant, said the whole situation is unfortunate.
"It's a significant blow for West Rowan. On a personal level, I'll miss Coach Linville as a friend,” said Coach Young.
Linville will officially resign from the school June 12. The decision was made before his first court appearance Monday, May 4.
"We have to be aware of our surroundings and aware of what we need to do at all times. This is an example of what makes our profession difficult at times,” said Young.
Rowan County investigators say the fight broke out when the student took his school-issued laptop from Linville’s desk. Some support the 15-year-old student who was charged with disorderly conduct. Others created a Facebook page called “Justice for Coach Linville.” It has more than 3,000 likes.
Representatives from Rowan-Salisbury schools would not comment on camera, because they say it is a private personnel matter involving confidential student information. The investigation is ongoing, and the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office said there’s more to the video. Information could be revealed in court next week.
"I don't think there's any winners here. I think both sides were losers and I hate it,” said Young.
Linville will appear in court Monday. He will be on paid leave until his official resignation date in June, according to Rowan-Salisbury School system investigators.