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Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Clayton superintendent blasts recruitment of district’s athletes
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Clayton County’s school superintendent estimates the district has lost 200 to 300 high school students, including athletes and some academic achievers, because of the possible accreditation loss. Superintendent John Thompson told the school board Monday that he plans to contact the Georgia High School Association about how to retain Clayton’s star athletes.
“Our enrollment is not where we want it to be. I found out tonight there is a lot of recruitment for our athletes. It’s disgusting,” Thompson told the board. “Those are some of the battles we will have to fight.”
Thompson said area school systems are recruiting Clayton’s “marquee” athletes, particularly juniors and seniors. He said Clayton has enough players for each team, but the transfers will hurt the district.
Kick off the debate: What’s YOUR opinion? Is Thompson right to criticize what he deems ‘recruitment for [Clayton] athletes’? Should the GHSA step in and investigate the charges? Do you think the student athletes’ exodus has more to do with sports opportunities, school accreditation or does it all factor in? What’s the solution? Tell us.
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