ATWATER, California (KSEE/KGPE) – A Merced Union High School District principal who was seen on video apparently dancing inappropriately with the high school’s mascot at a school rally has been placed on administrative leave.
In a statement, the Merced Union High School District says Robert Nunes was placed on administrative leave on Monday – following the incident last Friday.
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“This decision comes as part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all students and staff,” writes district communications director Viviana Fuentes.
In the video, which was posted on social media and lasts about 40 seconds, then Buhach Colony High School Principal Robert Nunes can be seen in the middle of a school gym on an office chair pushing back as the school’s mascot approaches him and the song “Pony” by artist Ginuwine plays.
The principal then shoots gold confetti at the mascot, stands up and faces the mascot. The mascot then sits on the chair as Nunes approaches him – before placing his hands on the mascot’s chest and sliding them down onto the mascot’s chest.
A crowd of students then join the two in the middle of the gym and someone asks Nunes if he has any words.
“What happens at Buhach stays at Buhach,” Nunes told the cheering crowd. Nunes then rolls the mascot out of the room.
In its statement, the Merced Union High School District says its staff will “conduct a comprehensive review of the situation” and adds that Robert Nunes will not participate in any school-related responsibilities or activities while the investigation is ongoing.
In the interim, Executive Director Torrin Johnson and Assistant Principal David Rogers will serve as interim principals for Buhach Colony High School.
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