Director of Education Maefau Dr. Mary Taufetee on Tuesday announced the appointment of Tulaga Kevin Magalei as the new Athletics Director for DOE. Magalei replaces Suaese “Pooch” Taase, who is reassigned to Leone High School as a PE and Health Instructor.
A press release from the DOE Director said, “Magalei’s extensive experience and deep commitment to students and their success make him the ideal choice to lead athletic programs we are confident that his vision will elevate our programs and provide our student athletes with the best opportunities to grow both on and off the field.”
On Tuesday, Taase was served a letter from Deputy Director Folausaua Faafetai Teofilo informing him of his new assignment. “Effective Wednesday, September 24, you will report to Leone High School Principal Dr. Patrick Danielson… As approved by the Director your new assigned position is the PE and Health Instructor.”
Taase believes he has been replaced as Athletics Director because spoke up about the placement of two teachers, who had been removed from their schools because of unbecoming conduct, under the Athletics Department.
He told KHJ News that he accepts his reassignment but wants to shed light on what led to his removal as Director of the Athletics Department.
Taase shared correspondence he sent to the DOE director sharing his concerns about the effects of having the two teachers under their division. He said, the “…Credibility and integrity of our office depends on positive role modes who embody sportsmanship and professionalism.” He added that their division is promoting a culture of sportsmanship, ethics, and positive character. Yet, one of the teachers reassigned to the athletics division was previously suspended by the ASHAA Board for using profanity towards other coaches, and the other was known to use vulgar language towards players.
Taase also mentioned that the director during a leadership meeting had said that the two teachers would be removed from DOE because of prior issues involving students.
He had suggested to the DOE Director that the two teachers be placed in another division where they would not be around students. His recommendation was to place them in the DOE warehouse.
Taase said he has been targeted because he spoke up.
