A judge has lifted the one-year suspension of Quitman High School football coach Danny Marrs, who had been disciplined by the Arkansas State Board of Education for failing to promptly report serious locker room abuse involving student athletes.
The State Board suspended Marrs in June 2025 after an investigation found that incidents of sexual hazing, bullying, and physical assaults by older players against younger teammates were not reported in a timely manner. Testimony before the board included allegations of repeated harassment and physical intimidation inside the football locker room.
The abuse at Quitman High School later led to the passage of state legislation known as Eli’s Law, which now requires public schools across Arkansas to install audio recording devices in locker rooms and dressing areas to help protect students and improve accountability.
On Tuesday, a Cleburne County judge ruled that Marrs did not receive a fair hearing before the State Board of Education. The judge cited improper private, or “ex parte,” communications between two board members and individuals involved in filing complaints against Marrs. As a result, the judge vacated the suspension and sent the case back to the State Board for reconsideration, with the two board members barred from participating in the new review.
Officials with the Arkansas Department of Education said the agency is consulting with the Attorney General’s Office to determine the next steps and timeline for the required rehearing.
Despite the ruling, Quitman School District has already hired a new head football coach, and it remains unclear whether Marrs will return to a coaching or teaching role while the board reconsiders the case.
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