JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) officially confirmed Friday that Jerrand Nesmith was never employed by the district, despite widespread claims identifying him as the head football coach at Riverside High School.
The revelation comes following an inquiry by News4JAX, prompted by an anonymous tip questioning Nesmith’s clearance to work with students. While DCPS acknowledged that Nesmith was extended a coaching offer earlier this year, the district clarified that an offer of employment does not equate to being hired. According to district policy, candidates must complete an extensive human resources vetting process and meet all professional requirements before they are authorized to step onto a field or interact with student-athletes.
“He failed to meet employment requirements,” the district stated in a response to News4JAX. “He never received the required clearance or authorization to work with students, and DCPS never announced or identified him as an employee of the district.”
The district did not disclose specific reasons why Nesmith failed to obtain clearance, citing the confidentiality of individual hiring processes. Furthermore, DCPS did not allege any specific wrongdoing by Nesmith but noted they are aware of outside sources and team-related social media posts that incorrectly identified him as the head coach.
The lack of clarity has left parents of Riverside High players deeply frustrated. Many families expressed confusion over the coaching situation, noting a lack of communication from school leadership. Some parents reported that they have not seen Nesmith on the sidelines during recent games—an observation confirmed by reporters at Friday’s matchup against Raines High School.
Beyond the confusion, parents voiced concerns regarding the long-term impact on the team. With player statistics not being consistently updated and a perceived lack of leadership, many worry that student-athletes, particularly those with aspirations to play at the collegiate level, are being hindered by the administrative turmoil.
DCPS maintains strict protocols for its athletic programs. According to the district, every coach must submit an application, pass an interview, and complete all mandatory HR tasks. Crucially, the district’s policy explicitly states that “no volunteer coaches are permitted” on any DCPS athletic facility or in contact with any athletes, underscoring the necessity for formal clearance.
As questions mount, the district has yet to clarify why Nesmith was seen in team gear or who is currently serving as the official head coach at Riverside. News4JAX reached out to both Riverside’s athletic director and Nesmith for comment, but neither had responded as of Friday evening.
The district remains under pressure to explain how a non-cleared individual was publicly associated with their athletic program, and whether an internal investigation into the matter is underway.
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