Rogers High School in Florence, Alabama, announced the departure of Sabrena Malone in late 2025 amid public scrutiny over student safety and harassment complaints.
Sabrena Malone had served as principal at Rogers High. She previously worked at Waterloo High, LCHS, Florence City Schools, and the YMCA of the Shoals.
She studied at the University of North Alabama and earned credentials in Educational Leadership from Samford University. She is married to Patrick Malone, head football coach at Deshler High School.
Her resignation followed mounting criticism over allegations that she mishandled student harassment and assault complaints. The public outcry coincided with attention on Deshler football player August Borden.
In August 2025, Borden, a 15-year-old Deshler student, suffered severe injuries during a school workout. Injuries included a skull fracture, orbital fractures, and a severe concussion.
The Madison County District Attorney later ruled Borden’s injuries a “freak accident.”
No criminal charges were filed, though parents and community members expressed continued concern.
Former student Elizabeth detailed a 2022 sexual assault report. She said she told Sabrena Malone, who involved a campus officer. The complaint, Elizabeth claims, was dismissed without action.
Elizabeth added that Malone allegedly told her there were “bigger problems than those of a high school student and that it was because of what I wore,” leaving the victim frustrated and unheard.
One individual wrote, “She secretly installed security cameras in the football field house trying to get the head football coach fired.”
The Community is Divided, But Wants Justice for August
Online commentary is divided. Some argue Sabrena Malone had no link to the Borden incident. Others cite Elizabeth’s account to question her handling of student safety.
The public debate intensified because Sabrena is married to Patrick Malone, Deshler High’s football coach, drawing attention to the school’s administration and athletic culture.
Debbie Maher wrote, “Well, I do feel sorry for her, but she’s married to the person that is covering things up! So she has to deal with it . Just like August’s parents have to deal with people talking behind their backs and about their son. I’m sure she’s doing ok ,Don’t forget the Price is Right.”
An individual argued, “She has nothing to do with what’s going on at Deshler football. You’re in everyone’s faces on Facebook with nothing to say. Does it make you feel better to lie and post false accusations against her?”
Patrick Malone is an alumnus of Deshler High and became the head coach in January 2022. He previously coached at multiple Alabama high schools.
Under his leadership, Deshler has made multiple playoff appearances and maintained a strong football program despite the 2024 postseason miss.
While the DA cleared Borden’s case, community members remain concerned about supervision, safety protocols, and transparency in athletic programs.
Some online posts criticized Sabrena Malone directly, accusing her of dismissing student concerns or failing to protect victims. Others defended her leadership and decades-long career.
“Too bad she didn’t secretly install them in Deshler! Oh wait! They had them but her husband hid the evidence,” wrote an individual.
Another added, “Just pointing out that Sabrina and Patrick Malone make a good covering-up team! Facts!”
Her departure from Rogers High School was formally accepted by the school board in October 2025. Officials cited personnel matters and declined detailed comment.
The resignation leaves the principal position at Rogers High open, and the district has not announced a replacement as of now.
District leaders reaffirmed their commitment to investigating credible reports of harassment and implementing safety measures for students.
Parents continue to push for accountability in school administration and athletic oversight, especially after the Borden incident.
Sabrena Malone’s career as an educator spanned multiple schools and roles, highlighting her long-standing presence in the Florence education community.
The situation underscores the challenges schools face in balancing administration, athletics, and student safety, especially amid public scrutiny.
Community members in Florence and Tuscumbia are closely following developments, advocating for transparency and student protection.
Both Sabrena and Patrick Malone remain residents of the area, with Patrick continuing to coach the Deshler Tigers football program.
The combined controversy around her resignation and the Borden incident illustrates ongoing local demands for accountability and safer schools.
