Embattled New Rochelle Superintendent Says Investigation Will Not Conclude Before Big Game; DeRienzo Banned on Saturday

Written By: Robert Cox

I am pasting below the text of an email that Dr. Feijoo sent to New Rochelle High School football parents a short while ago.

Dear Football Parents,

Although I understand that this is a very difficult time, I was happy to hear directly from some of you yesterday.  I fully understand that it is frustrating that Coach DiRienzo was reassigned without the district being able to share the details around this decision.  The district recognizes how much work went into getting the players, your children, to this high level of competition in football.  They are celebrated within our local community and statewide.  Much of their success is attributed to Coach D, along with your dedication and support.  We know that to many he is much more than a football coach, he is a father figure, life coach and mentor.  We understand that his circle of influence extends past the team to all of New Rochelle and beyond.

We are confident that our athletes are prepared for the game on Saturday and we have full confidence in the assistant coaches and their ability to take the team all the way. We also understand that the coaches have a deep and profound respect for and loyalty toward Coach D and have continued to communicate with him during this important time for our athletes. The district is governed by all of the above and its obligation to investigate matters when the situation warrants it.

The Board of Education and the district intend to complete this investigation expeditiously.  Investigations are conducted by central and building administration.  The Board of Education will be updated once the investigation concludes. Given that we are against what most would consider a hard deadline, the game on Saturday, I feel it is my responsibility to set expectations.  I regret to inform you after much deliberation with both central and building level administration, that this investigation will not be concluded by game day.  We are committed to a fair and thorough investigation of the matter in a timely fashion but want to communicate our timeline with you so that families know what to expect.  We will update you when possible.

This is the distribution list we have of the football parents, please share it with those who may have been inadvertently left off left off.

Sincerely,

Dr. Feijoo