JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Duval County Public Schools confirmed Friday that Jerrand Nesmith was never employed by the district, despite being referred to in team posts and outside outlets as the head football coach at Riverside High School.
The district told News4JAX that Nesmith was offered a coaching position earlier this year, but said an offer does not constitute employment because candidates must complete the hiring process and meet district requirements before they are authorized to begin working with students.
In a statement to News4JAX, DCPS said Nesmith “failed to meet employment requirements,” resulting in “non-employment with the district.” The district also said he “never received the required clearance or authorization to work with students,” and that DCPS “never announced or identified him as an employee of the district.”
News4JAX began asking questions after receiving an anonymous tip claiming Nesmith had not been cleared to work for the district.
News4JAX contacted DCPS and requested verification of employment and clearance status for multiple Riverside football staff members, including Nesmith. In an initial response, DCPS said it was looking into the request.
A week later, DCPS ultimately confirmed Friday that Nesmith was never employed, despite the earlier offer.
DCPS said it is aware of outside sources referring to Nesmith as the head coach.
What remains unclear
DCPS has not explained why Nesmith did not receive clearance.
The district told News4JAX it cannot discuss the details of any individual’s hiring process.
DCPS did not allege any wrongdoing by Nesmith. At this point, DCPS has not said why the employment requirements were not met.
Parents describe confusion, lack of communication
Parents of players told News4JAX they are frustrated by what they describe as a lack of clear communication about the coaching situation.
Some parents said they have not seen Nesmith on the sidelines this season. News4JAX went to Riverside’s game Friday against Raines and did not see him on the sideline.
Parents also raised concerns about guidance and direction for players, particularly those hoping to play at the next level. Some told News4JAX that stats have not been consistently uploaded, and they worry that could affect recruiting opportunities.
Questions News4JAX sent to DCPS
News4JAX sent DCPS additional questions Friday evening, including:
If Nesmith was never hired or authorized to begin work, why was he seen in team gear?
Who is the official head coach at Riverside High School?
Did Nesmith serve in any capacity with the football team?
When did DCPS become aware he was being presented as head coach without being cleared?
Is DCPS investigating how this happened?
News4JAX also called Riverside’s athletic director and Nesmith and left messages. As of publication, neither had responded.
DCPS outlines steps required to coach
According to the district’s website, DCPS lists multiple steps required to become an athletic coach, including submitting an application through the district’s online portal, being interviewed by school administration, receiving an offer, and completing the human resources process and assigned tasks in the employment portal.
DCPS also emphasizes that there are no volunteer coaches permitted in or on any DCPS athletic facility — or permitted with any students or athletes.
Copyright 2026 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.