Buhach Colony High School principal Robert Nunes has been placed on administrative leave by the Merced Union High School District following an incident at a school rally last week.
A video of Nunes dancing with the school mascot “Thor” during the back-to-school rally on Friday, Aug. 16 was posted on social media and many people feel it was inappropriate.
The MUHSD released a statement saying Nunes was placed on administrative leave, “This decision comes as part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment,” said district spokesperson Viviana Fuentes.
Nunes was placed on administrative leave on Monday, Aug. 19.
“The district is conducting a comprehensive review of the situation,” Fuentes added. “While the investigation is ongoing, Mr. Nunes will not be participating in any school-related responsibilities or activities.”
The video shows Nunes seated as the school mascot dances in front of him. Nunes then fired a golden confetti gun. Nunes then stands up, switching places with the mascot. Nunes dances in front of the sitting mascot, putting his hands on Thor’s chest and pushing him away.
Nunes then grabs a microphone and says, “What happens at Buhach, stays at Buhach.”
Students have commented online that the rally had a Vegas theme.
The comments on social media have been mixed.
“I don’t think it’s appropriate it all!” said one person who commented on Facebook. Another person stated, “This is disturbing. Very suggestive.”
Other people took to social media to defend Nunes.
“This principal has been amazing, and cleaning some of the stuff up,” said one parent on Facebook. “I have 2 kids that attend school here, and I’m not offended by it. It’s been blown WAY up.”
This is Nunes’ first year as principal at Buhach Colony. He spent years as an associate principal in the district at El Capitan and Atwater high schools.
According to Fuentes, MUHSD Executive Director Torrin Johnson and Buhach Colony associate principal David Rogers will serve as the acting principals during the interim.
“We are confident that Mr. Johnson and Mr. Rogers will provide effective guidance and uphold MUHSD values during this period,” Fuentes said.
Source Agencies
