Amarillo High School volleyball coach Kori Clements has resigned.

On Wednesday, Clements announced her resignation from AISD, with a statement, saying she decided to resign due to her desires to “not compromise [her] integrity.” In the statement, Clements mentioned a “parent’s political pressure or position” in making her decision. Clements also mentioned playing time in the volleyball team, calling the playing time “earned.”

AISD has declined various media outlets’ requests to comment.

The announcement of the resignation comes as the Amarillo Independent School District is gearing up for its May 4th Board of Trustees elections. Three seats will be up for grabs in four year terms, with another seat’s final two years of a four year term also available in a special election. Filing for that election is happening now.

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Clements’ statement:

“For a variety of reasons, I have recently resigned from my position as AHS volleyball coach, effective at the end of my contract. I want to be clear, I have not violated any district or UIL standards, and have upheld the teacher code of ethics at all times. As I have contemplated this decision over the past several days, I have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of support from current and former players and parents as well as my professional peers. I am so thankful for the success we’ve experienced and the many positive relationships that have developed.

As a coach, playing time decisions are always difficult. Unfortunately, upon making these decisions in the best interest of team success, I was not supported by athletic, campus, or district administration. I was told by campus administration that I needed to recognize the political aspect of my job, and also of theirs. I cannot and will not compromise the integrity of my decisions based on a parent’s political pressure or position. I believe strongly in the value of athletics, that being a part of a team is a privilege, and playing time is earned.

I’m hopeful that AISD will be able to hire an experienced coach with the courage to make the tough playing time decisions and the technical expertise to push our returning players. Next year’s team has the potential to play for a State Championship, and I will be enthusiastically supporting them in their journey.

My husband and I will welcome our daughter this summer and look forward to making our growing family our top priority.”

— Kori Clements