Myrtle Beach Athletic Director on Leave Amid Controversy

Myrtle Beach – John Cahill, the athletic director of Myrtle Beach High School, is currently on administrative leave due to a failure to fulfill his job responsibilities. The decision was confirmed by Horry County Schools on June 6, with Cahill officially on leave since May 7.

In a subsequent announcement made by Principal Kristin Altman on June 12, it was revealed that Cahill would be stepping down from his position effective June 30. Following his resignation, he is set to resume a teaching role within Horry County Schools starting July 1. Cahill has held the role of athletic director since 2011 and has garnered several accolades throughout his tenure, including the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association SC state merit award in 2025.

Cahill’s administrative leave coincides with an ongoing investigation initiated by the school district, which was confirmed on June 9. During this period, he is mandated to maintain a distance from school property and is prohibited from contacting students, staff, or parents.

As of 2023, Cahill’s annual salary was reported to be approximately $97,500. His personnel file reflects positive evaluations over the years, indicating that he has met job requirements consistently. However, reports have emerged highlighting issues related to a specific incident involving a photo of the boys’ volleyball team that has led to scrutiny of his actions.

Controversial Incident

The controversy stems from a photograph in which some players allegedly made gang sign gestures. Following public concerns, police were called in, leading to questioning of a student involved in the photo. This incident has ignited debates about potential racial bias, particularly since similar gestures made by white teammates were not subject to the same level of scrutiny.

Investigation and Community Response

The school district has acknowledged that it did not adequately follow proper procedures while addressing this situation. As the investigation unfolds, the school administration now faces heightened scrutiny regarding the protocols they employ during such incidents and the broader implications they may carry.

Patricia Powell, the mother of the student who was questioned, has publicly voiced her concerns regarding the matter’s handling. She raised alarms over the potential racial implications and has called for accountability from the school’s administration. Many community members are now questioning whether appropriate measures were taken and if apologies are warranted.

As the end of the school year approaches, the outcome of the investigation into Cahill’s conduct and the school administration’s role in the incident remains unclear. The situation underscores larger issues of racial sensitivity and accountability in educational institutions.

Overall, the implications of John Cahill’s leave and subsequent step down reflect critical concerns about the administration’s handling of sensitive situations and how they impact the broader community within Horry County Schools.