RAPID CITY, S.D. — A Rapid City Central High School Assistant Wrestling Coach has filed a lawsuit against Rapid City Area Schools.
Dave Gorsuch filed suit in February 2020, prior to the region and state wrestling tournaments, after being suspended with pay for the remainder of the season.
The District says Gorsuch violated COVID safety protocols after exhibiting symptoms and still attending a JV Girls Wrestling Tournament and a team practice. He tested positive five days later while still symptomatic.
“The District will not accept intended or unintended violations of health and safety protocols, as these violations place students and staff at a heightened risk,” reads a conference review between Gorsuch and the District.
Gorsuch argues the suspension and says his constitutional rights have been violated by lack of due process. During the suspension, Gorsuch missed the region wrestling tournament but was able to petition successfully to coach in the State Tournament. In an affidavit he said his “absence from [the state] tournament will cause irreparable harm to their success and my professional reputation.”
Meanwhile, the District has decided to not renew contracts for the whole coaching staff at Central. Head Coach Lance Pearson’s position is expected to be discussed at the District’s school board meeting in executive session May 3.
