Joe Auer didn’t want to stop coaching.
But after 30 years, more than 700 wins and six state championships at Wichita Heights, the most successful coach in City League history has been forced to step away — not because of burnout, but because of a little-known district rule that left him no choice.
A USD 259 policy dating back to pre-1995 hires triggered his exit. The retirement provision gives longtime employees a “bridge” benefit, effectively a second pension for five years, but only if they leave the district entirely. When Auer turned 60 in March, the clock started…