A Charlotte high school football coach has been suspended before start of season
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Palisades High School football coach Jonathan Simmons has been suspended with pay by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and will miss the start of the 2026 season.
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Simmons confirmed to The Observer, via text message, that he had been suspended. He said he had no further comment.
Palisades principal Erik Olejarczyk sent a note Pumas parents and said that Darrel Wilson, the defensive coordinator, will be the interim coach. Wilson was a star player at Hunter Huss High School in Gastonia in the 1990s.
Palisades was scheduled to start the season Friday night in Gaston County against Ashbrook High School.
Simmons has been the Pumas’ coach since the school opened in 2022. After going 2-9 and 3-7 in his first two seasons, Simmons led Palisades to an 8-4 record in 2024, and again in 2025.
This season’s team has heightened expectations, with 11 returning starters, including three all-conference players: QB Cole Hough, defensive back Nick Rankin and offensive lineman Ephraim Holmes.
Palisades is ranked No. 8 in The Observer’s Sweet 16 regional football rankings and No. 20 in The Super 25 N.C. statewide poll.
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Here is the full letter than Palisades principal Olejarczyk sent to school families:
Palisades High School Football Families,
I wanted to reach out to let you know that Coach Jonathan Simmons has been suspended with pay. I realize this update may be a surprise to you, but I want to make sure you know I have a plan to maintain a strong and competitive football program at our school.
To ensure consistent coaching and support during this time, Coach Darrel Wilson has been named interim head football coach at Palisades High School.
Please know that our administrative team, athletic director and Coach Wilson will be ready to support your child and family with the resources needed for a great start to the school year and season.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know. Thank you for your continued support of Palisades High School and our football program!
Read more A Charlotte high school football coach has been suspended before start of season
This story was originally published August 21, 2026 at 5:00 PM.
