Parents Rally to Get Edsel Ford Basketball Coach His Job Back

A group of parents thanked the Dearborn Public Schools Board of Education on Monday for saving the job of a basketball coach who they said changed their children's lives.

Ibrahim Baydoun was reinstated as varsity basketball coach at Edsel Ford High School for the 2013-2014 academic year after being unexpectedly removed from his position last week.

Baydoun was one of three candidates that went before a committee appointed by Edsel Ford Principal Scott Casebolt to apply for the position on May 9. The school declined to comment on why the committee voted to replace Baydoun after more than a decade of leading the program.

News of Baydoun's termination was posted on the Dearborn Area Community Members Facebook page, sparking an online uproar and petition campaign from Edsel Ford students and alumni.

"Abraham Baydoun is a great man, who has done a lot for Edsel Ford as both a counselor and basketball coach," William Ali wrote. "I am very  sorry for my friend 'Juice' and wish him the best. I hope the students  and parents that he has helped and cared for throughout the years stand  up and support him."

Mohamed Alwah wrote, "I would never defend a person who doesnt deserve it, but I will stand  by this man for as long as he needs it. He is also a counselor at the  school and he has given countless scholarships to seniors every year. It's a shame what this society has become."

Baydoun has served as head basketball coach for Edsel Ford for the past 17 years. The boys' varsity team ended its 2012-2013 season with a 1-18-0 record. In 2008 Baydoun was named to the Dearborn Recreation Department's Hall of Fame, as a legend in the city's youth and adult basketball leagues.

A call to Casebolt's office was not returned on Monday, however the high school released an official statement following a meeting between Baydoun and Casebolt on May 11:

Coach Baydoun and Principal Casebolt met for three hours during which we identified and discussed the concerns by all the parties. It was an open and honest dialogue that has led to the decision that Coach Baydoun will be offered the opportunity to return as head coach for next season. All of the parties also agree to dedicate their efforts toward building a successful basketball program at Edsel Ford High School. We all appreciate everyone's input and support. This conversation has inspired us to work together towards the common goal of generating communication amongst all stakeholders. We believe that this will enable us to reach our goal of giving our student athletes the best opportunities at Edsel Ford and beyond. While we will not discuss our concerns publicly, Coach Baydoun and myself agreed that we will work together on addressing any concerns that either party has, if and when they occur.

School Board President Pamela Adams said the board supports the decision to reinstate Baydoun and is happy to see the issue resolved.

Resident Tarek Baydoun said while he appreciates the board's support, he would like the district to release more information about the process it originally went through to replace Ibrahim Baydoun.

"Growing up as a child, coach wasn't just a role model. He was the ultimate role model. Our kids continue to look up to him, and our community needs people like him to continue to allow Dearborn to be that special place," Baydoun said. "I'm thankful a solution has been implemented. I do think there were some very serious allegations that the school board would do well to consider and investigate so that there are no unanswered questions as to what went on with coach."

In a letter to school families, Ibrahim Baydoun expressed his gratitude for the public's support.

"Words cannot adequately express my appreciation for the love and  support I have received in these difficult times," Baydoun said. "It is the people of this  community exhibiting such displays of generosity, love, concern and support that remind me of why Dearborn was such a wonderful place to  grow up."