Mineral City, Ohio - During a special meeting on October 12, the Tuscarawas Valley Board of Education approved a resignation agreement with former head football George Zagales.

Zagales, who also served as the strength and conditioning coach and dean of students at the Tusky Valley middle and high schools, was relieved of his duties with pay on September 4 pending the outcome of an internal investigation into allegations that he verbally addressed student-athletes in an “inappropriate and unprofessional manner” after a game at Fairless High School. 

Under the terms of the agreement, the board agreed to accept Zagales’ resignation from his supplemental coaching positions effective October 8 and from his teaching/Dean of Students position effective May 19, 2019. 

Zagales will be paid for his supplemental duties through October 8 and will continue to receive pay through December 18 for his teaching/Dean of Students duties due to accumulated sick leave and personal leave. Beginning on December 19, he will be on an approved unpaid leave of absence for the remainder of his contract.

By signing the agreement, Zagales agreed to waive his right to file or pursue any action, claim or grievance against the district arising from his employment, resignation, or the circumstances leading up to the execution of the agreement. Both parties acknowledged that the signing of the agreement does not constitute an admission of fault or wrongdoing by either party.   

In his letter of resignation dated October 8, Zagales stated that it is with strong emotions that he announces his decision to resign from his position as head football coach.

“The past four years have been very special to me and my family. I am proud of the accomplishments of these young men, both on and off the field,” he wrote. 

Superintendent Mark Murphy expressed his support of Zagales’ decision to pursue teaching and coaching opportunities elsewhere stated that the district wishes the best for him and his family.

STACEY CARMANY, TUSCO TV