6:00: Morning News

Harrison superintendent wants to revisit school policy following Bridgeport coach arrest

BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — The superintendent of Harrison County Schools says he wants to revisit the school system’s policy on student-teacher relationships following the arrest of Bridgeport High School head football coach Josh Nicewarner.

“I don’t feel comfortable with some of our teachers friending on Facebook, texting and all of the other things that are available through technology today. I just think it opens up that door,” Superintendent Mark Manchin said on MetroNews “Talkline.”

Nicewarner, 34, is facing two felony charges in connection with attempting to seduce a minor via a computer.

According to investigators, Nicewarner knew a 14 year old victim who he’s accused of having an inappropriate relationship with from May-July.

Manchin announced last week Nicewarner has been suspended indefinitely without pay pending an investigation.

“We have not been able to determine any school computers were used,” Manchin said. “All indications is that he did all this on his own during his own time and that is incredibly unfortunate.”

Manchin said he plans to recommend firing Nicewarner during the Harrison County Board of Education’s meeting Tuesday night.

He also wants the BOE to consider changes to Harrison County Schools’ policy when it comes to the way teachers communicate with students.

“I will present language that will even tighten this up more that will very clearly delineate what is appropriate and what is not appropriate. I feel confident that we will make this stronger,” Manchin said.

Nicewarner is a physical education teacher at Liberty High School and coaches football at Bridgeport High School.

He’s accused of asking the girl to send explicit photos of herself. The criminal complaint says Nicewarner sent a video of himself “simulating masturbation” to the girl.

Nicewarner could face up to 15 years in prison. A preliminary hearing is set for Aug. 8.





More High School Sports

High School Sports
Montague & Nutter each drive in four runs as Morgantown rallies past University, 8-6
The Mohigans took their only lead of the game in the sixth inning with Caleb Nutter's 3-run double.
March 27, 2024 - 9:59 pm
High School Sports
Class AA Boys Basketball All-State List
Charleston Catholic's Jayallen Turner captains first team.
March 27, 2024 - 12:10 am
High School Sports
Class A Boys Basketball All-State List
Webster County's Rayden Triplett captains first team.
March 26, 2024 - 9:46 am
High School Sports
Polar Bears hang on to edge East Fairmont, 3-2
Fairmont Senior got a complete game from Samuel Viani and run-scoring double from Ethan Miller during a two-run sixth inning. It was the only extra-base hit in the game.
March 25, 2024 - 10:53 pm