Kennedy Reinstates Bailey

Donis Bailey was reinstated as the Kennedy High girls’ basketball coach Wednesday following a five-day suspension after administrators could not prove allegations that she had disobeyed the principal.

Two Kennedy teachers last week charged that Brian Lewis, a former Taft volunteer assistant, helped coach Kennedy during practice in violation of Principal Warren Mason’s orders to Bailey.

Lewis is forbidden from coaching at Kennedy because five Taft players transferred to Kennedy last summer through open enrollment amid charges that the assistant had recruited them after leaving Taft.

“I got a lot of hugs from the girls,” Bailey said. “I’ve got to be doubly certain that Mr. Lewis is not coaching. I already keep the gym doors locked during practice.

“I feel sorry for Brian because he was blamed for something he didn’t do. I’m glad I had enough people step forward to convince Mr. Mason to reinstate me.”

Mason spoke with parents, players, Lewis and the teachers who alleged misconduct before making a decision. Parents and players backed Bailey.

“Nothing can be proven one way or another, there are conflicting accounts,” Mason said. “But if the issue does come up again, there will be discipline or dismissal. This is the last time we go through this.”

Bailey returned in time to coach the Golden Cougars on Wednesday in the first round of the Roosevelt tournament.

Forward Vanessa Dunn, the best player who transferred from Taft, is out indefinitely with a knee injury.