Texas high school football coach placed on leave amid misconduct allegations

Howe football coach Jake Smith was placed on administrative leave amid allegations of inappropriate behavior toward a student-athlete and school employees. (Google Maps ) Texas high school football coach and athletic director Jake Smith has been placed on administrative leave while his school investigates allegations involving a student-athlete and school employees.Howe ISD notified parents in a letter that Smith was placed on leave pending an independent investigation into allegations of overly aggressive and inappropriate behavior toward a student-athlete, according to KXII 12 News. The investigation will also examine allegations of inappropriate communications with employees that may have contributed to a hostile and unprofessional work environment.ALSO READ:Clemens keeps playoff hopes alive in wild win over PieperDistrict officials said Smith's leave would allow a third-party investigator to conduct a thorough and impartial review. Citing the personnel matter, Howe ISD declined to provide additional details.Howe High School Assistant Principal Rocky Smart will serve as interim athletic director and head football coach.Smith took over the program in June 2025 after former coach Andrew Harvey was fired.The Bulldogs are 6-3 this season under Smith, finishing second in their district and earning a playoff berth.Howe, in Grayson County north of Dallas, is scheduled to face Leonard on Friday.SubscribeThere’s more to San Antonio with the Express-News. Subscribe today for just 25¢.This article originally published at Texas high school football coach placed on leave amid misconduct allegations.