A special Goodrich ISD Board of Trustees meeting Monday resulted in the non-renewal of its athletic director, Lester King.
King has served the school district for the past 38 years as its athletic director and head coach of basketball, cross country, track and field and tennis.
The school district released a statement to the Enterprise Tuesday on the matter:
“Last night, the Board held a public hearing during which Mr. King was given the opportunity to be represented by his lawyer and present his position to the Board in response to the District’s proposed non-renewal of his contract for reasons provided to Mr. King in writing on March 21, 2025. After considering the arguments and evidence of both Mr. King’s counsel and counsel for the Administration, the Board voted unanimously to non-renew Mr. King’s employment contract with the District, which means that the District will not renew Mr. King’s contract for the next year school year. We acknowledge Mr. King’s service and accomplishments at the District and wish him luck in his future endeavors. The Board and Administration will move forward and focus on District business and its students and will not issue further comments on this matter.”
King has led the athletic department at Goodrich since 1987. He holds 25 district championships in basketball, with seven state tournament appearances, winning a state title in 2001.
His cross-country program won district 20 times, were regional champs five times, and sent many to the state meet in track and field.
"They have stirred up a Hornet's nest," he said after Monday's meeting.
The coach had several from the community who spoke on his behalf in the open forum Monday. King said he was appreciative of their support in a statement Tuesday.
"I would like to thank everybody who made the effort for me. Goodrich and the student-athletes here have meant so much to me and 38 years is a long time. I want to thank everyone who came through this program for all their hard work and dedication. I also would like to thank all of my coaches that have put in time for these kids. I am proud of my time here and what we were able to accomplish."
