Craig Spence has resigned as football coach at Auburn Mountainview.

Jared Gervais, who has worked with the junior varsity program, is the Lions’ next head coach, according to Auburn School District Athletic Director Rob Swaim.

In addition to his duties as head coach Gervais will also be the team’s offensive coordinator. He will be aided by returning assistant coaches John Tomasi and B.J. Tucker. Gervais will also teach science at Auburn Mountainview.

Spence, who taught study skills, personal growth and freshman orientation at the school, said Principal Terri Herren informed him on May 10 that in order to remain as a full-time teacher at the school, he would need to switch his teaching credential to mathematics, which would require additional class time to obtain a certification.

“My resignation was tendered to Principal Herren after making the decision to focus my time on returning as a teacher and head track coach,” Spence said in a statement. “Unfortunately, the day after submitting my resignation, I was informed by Principal Herren that in fact no future teaching position existed for me at (the school).”

According to Spence, he appealed the decision to the district and was told that a position as a math teacher would be open to him, contingent on finishing his certification.

However, by the time he was told of the decision, Spence said there wasn’t enough time for him to get the certification done by the beginning of the school year.

“While deeply disappointed, I respect the desire of Principal Herren and Athletic Director (Andrea) McHenry to move the football and track positions in a new direction,” Spence said in a statement.

Spence took over the program last year and led the Lions to a 4-6 overall record.

“It has been a great experience to work with the young men at Auburn Mountainview as head football and head track coach,” Spence said in a statement. “In the last year, they have displayed a tremendous work ethic, character and growth as individuals and as a team.

“I greatly appreciate the tremendous support of the parents and young men in our programs and wish them the very best in their futures.”