Football Coach Robert Garrett Still Absent at Crenshaw High
Crenshaw High Coach Remains on Administrative Leave, Reflects on Impact and Future
Robert Garrett, a veteran educator and successful football coach at Crenshaw High School, finds himself in an unusual position: for the past eight months, he has received a full salary while working from home after being placed on administrative leave. This arrangement, colloquially referred to as "teacher jail," has drawn attention within the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).
“Who got it better than me?” Garrett remarked, expressing contentment with his current situation despite its unorthodox nature. The leave began last August, just before the school’s football season opener, and since then, he has been awaiting a conclusion to a district investigation that lacks a definitive timeline. Although LAUSD typically has 120 days to resolve such cases, historical precedents suggest this could extend indefinitely.
“It’s a good deal. It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I haven’t had a break in 45 years,” Garrett noted during a recent phone interview. Meanwhile, the LAUSD continues to investigate, with no apparent urgency. Despite Garrett’s absence, Crenshaw High’s football team advanced to the City Section Open Division final, raising questions about the impact of his absence on students this academic year.
Garrett, who has coached the team since 1988, has been a prominent figure in the Crenshaw community. Recent changes at the school, including a renovation by Nike that showcased the gymnasium, have sparked discussions about the district’s priorities. Some wonder how the district can promote Crenshaw while sidelining one of its most successful coaches.
“If that’s the plan, let’s roll with it,” Garrett said, demonstrating resilience amidst uncertainty. “I haven’t heard anything about anything. That’s OK. I have no complaints. I take the bitter with the sweet.”
The LAUSD has numerous teachers like Garrett on administrative leave, leading to an environment where decisions can be delayed. Historical cases, such as that of former Huntington Park basketball coach Joe Reed, underline this trend; Reed spent 14 months on leave before being reinstated to his teaching role, although he did not regain his coaching position.
Another notable instance involved former basketball coach Don Loperena, who was initially dismissed but later reinstated by judicial order after a lengthy arbitration process.
While investigations into complaints are necessary, many believe that Garrett will likely return to his coaching role when his situation is resolved, regardless of whether the district issues an apology. “I will be coaching somewhere, somehow,” Garrett affirmed, expressing his commitment to continue influencing young athletes, even if it means starting at the youth level.
As Garrett awaits clarity on his status, one thing remains certain: his passion for coaching remains unwavering.
