CPS CEO Warns Coaches in Wake of Basketball Game Shooting Tragedy

According to an article from the Chicago Sun-Times , Chicago Public Schools (CPS) CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett has released a statement about the district stance regarding the fatal shooting that occurred at a high school basketball game just over a week ago. In her statement, Byrd-Bennett warns CPS coaches that their sports programs could be put in jeopardy if they fail to follow sportsmanship rules and appropriate conduct.

Here are some facts about details about the shooting and the school district's actions in the wake of the tragedy:

* The Huffington Post reported that Tyrone Lawson, 17, was shot multiple times in a parking lot at Chicago State University where a basketball game was being held between two rival schools, Morgan Park High and Simeon Career Academy.

* There was a verbal and physical altercation, started between two opposing players, while the two teams were shaking hands following the game.

* Simeon coach Robert Smith and Morgan Park coach Nick Irvin continued their verbal altercation even after security ordered the teams back to their locker rooms, according to WGN .

* Shortly after, shots were fired outside in the parking lot and the entire building was put on lockdown. Police have apprehended two suspects.

* This week, CPS suspended both coaches and two individual players for the post-game incident after assessing a video and speaking to individuals involved, noted the Chicagoist .

* Following the tragedy, CPS is reviewing the Chicago State University venue and the security plan for the upcoming basketball game between Simeon and Whitney Young Magnet School, a game that Byrd-Bennett will be attending.

* The Chicago Tribune reported that the district has sent out a memo to all CPS basketball coaches and Byrd-Bennett's statement said, "Every coach in the Chicago Public Schools, without exception, is responsible for teaching and demonstrating respectful, moral and ethical behavior."

* Mayor Rahm Emanuel emphasized that all adults at the games need to serve as role models: "You can have a conflict, you can have a competition and you set an example with one of the big issues we have to do, which is how do you handle conflict resolution. Our kids don't know that."

* In addition to the two coaches being suspended, the penalty imposed on them also requires them to explain their four-game absence to their players, a point that Byrd-Bennett says should be a learning opportunity for appropriate conduct and good sportsmanship.

* The Positive Coaching Alliance is set to have three workshops with CPS coaches next week and an official coaches meeting will take place on Feb. 2.

Rachel Bogart provides an in-depth look at current environmental issues and local Chicago news stories. Currently pursuing her master's degree in environmental science, she applies her knowledge and passion to both topics to garner further public awareness.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/cps-ceo-warns-coaches-wake-basketball-game-shooting-201700341.html

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