Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Haynes clears the air concerning his work

Jeff Haynes, a member of the Prescott School Board, cleared the air and straightened some misconceptions out.

This was done at the Aug. 9 meeting of Concerned Adults-Prescott Schools (CAPS). At a previous meeting, questions had been raised about how ethical it is for Haynes to serve on the Board and provide therapeutic services for the district at the same time.

Haynes Sports Therapy, based in Hope, has a contract with the Prescott School District to provide physical and occupational therapy to students who need it. He pointed out he went through the same bidding process other therapists did  and more. Before submitting a bid Haynes had to make sure it would be legal. He then filed the required paperwork with the state agencies involved before making a bid.

When the subject came before the Board, Haynes informed CAPS members he recused himself and left the room while the other bidders remained in the meeting. His bid was chosen because it was the lowest and he offered better services.

But, as he said, there have been rumors going around about his other school activities, saying hes getting paid for them.

For the last three years, he said, he has been driving the golf team to all of its matches, including renting a trailer for the players clubs. I dont ask anything for this. Im trying to help the kids.

Haynes coaches the Curley Wolf cross country track team, for which he is paid nothing. This is done on a volunteer basis with Haynes running with the team. Recently he took the squad to Lake Greeson for four days, which he paid for himself. I took 14 to the lake for camp for four days, he said, out of my pocket. All the hours I spend are gratis. I love these kids.

He also addressed how much he gets paid for the work he does on sidelines during football games, again nothing. Haynes did have a contract with the Hope School District for his services on the sidelines during games, but because he wasnt charging Prescott, he cancelled the contract with Hope and continues to work for them. In fact, he said, when hes at one game, he pays one of his staff to be at the other. I pay a trainer to be on the sidelines where Im not.

Haynes continued saying he attends most home basketball games and always carries his equipment bag, just in case his services are needed.

I do bill insurance companies, and parents for co-payment, he said, but this funds other activities. My contract with the school is for physical and occupational therapy along with special services. When a child is hurt they dont have to come to me. Im not here for a pat on the back, but to clear up the ignorance of whats been said.

Todd Richards, CAPS moderator, said the underlying problem has been a lack of communication. We dropped the ball and need to pick it up.

This is my 16th year as athletic trainer, Haynes said. I love these kids. My door is always open if you have any questions.