“They Work Very Hard to Be Athletes”: Parents Demand Justice Over Mystery of Funds Misused by Cheerleading Coach in Walden Grove High

The cloud of uncertainty still has not cleared out among the cheerleaders of the Walden Grove High School. On December 20, reports confirmed Denise Montano, the head coach and registrar of the school cheerleading team, to be involved in the mishandling of cheerleading funds. This charge eventually led to his resignation and the onset of an investigation by the Arizona Auditor General.

As the investigation process continues at its own pace, parents of the students who have been part of the cheerleading team have raised their concerns. One of the parents, Cory Stephens seems to be in distress over the disappearance of their contributions.   

Raised concerns about irregular cheerleading fundraising approach

The unfolding saga has questioned the integrity of the school cheerleading team. It was Montano who purportedly directed the cheerleaders and their parents to send money to a Walden Grove High School Cheer Vermo account. This has been a deviation from the customary fundraising route that always involved the booster club. 

Stephens, whose daughter has been a part of the cheerleading team for more than two and a half years, sensed something amiss about this unconventional fundraising approach. Adding up to this, the funds raised from a recent calendar fundraising event were directly channeled to the cheerleading coach’s Venmo account without any approval from the school board.

In the wake of this cheerleading fund corruption, parents are worried about their children’s efforts going in vain. In an interview with 13 News, the parent shared her views, “This is a sport to these girls. They work very hard to be athletes and there needs to be a standard of advocacy for these girls because they work hard.” With the joint effort of 32 cheerleading members in total, the absence of a substantial number led to further investigation. 

Call for resolution and advocacy

The impact of the situation goes far beyond just monetary losses since it involves the efforts and dedication of the cheerleaders involved. In order to pay respect to the efforts they have by pouring their heart out, the urgency of stricter action against the cheerleading coach prevails. 

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Efforts had been made to seek clarification directly from Monatano, but the attempt hit a roadblock when a visit to her residence led to denials from people knowing her. However, even in the midst of a despairing situation, Stephens has remained resolute in her belief.

She hopes that the issue will soon be resolved and the coach will be punished soon. “I think it’s a disturbing representation of somebody who has let down a lot of people. And I think justice will hopefully be served.” Comprehending the urgency of the situation, the Auditor General’s office has taken up the investigation with the mission to trace the trail of the missing funds.

As of now, no charges have been brought against the cheerleading coach. The matter has been referred to the state auditor by the Sahuarita Unified School District for further review. Even though there are lingering questions surrounding the timeline and duration, the families living in a state of limbo remain firm in their pursuit of justice. 

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