Buhach Colony High School Principal Robert Nunes has been placed on administrative leave following a controversial incident during a school pep rally that has sparked outrage and divided opinions in the Merced County community of Atwater. The incident, which took place in the school’s gymnasium, involved Nunes and the school mascot engaging in what many have described as an inappropriate dance routine, with video footage quickly going viral.
The pep rally, intended to boost school spirit, took an unexpected turn when Nunes was seated in a chair as the school’s mascot, dressed in costume, performed a lap dance. In the video, Nunes is seen laughing and popping a confetti cannon while the mascot dances around him. The situation escalated when Nunes and the mascot switched roles, with the principal then performing a similar dance for the mascot. The entire sequence, captured on video by students and attendees, has ignited a heated debate within the community.
The video, which has circulated widely on social media, has led to swift backlash from some parents and community members who view the principal’s actions as highly inappropriate, particularly given the setting and the audience of students. Several parents have called for Nunes to be fired, arguing that his behavior was unbecoming of a school leader and set a poor example for the students.
One concerned parent stated, “This is not the kind of behavior we expect from someone in a position of authority at our children’s school. It’s unprofessional and unacceptable.” The parent added that the incident has brought unwelcome attention to the school and raised questions about the judgment of its leadership.
However, not everyone in the community shares the same view. Some parents and students have come to Nunes’ defense, describing him as a dedicated and well-liked principal who made a regrettable mistake. Supporters argue that the incident, while in poor taste, was not malicious and should be viewed as a lapse in judgment rather than a fireable offense.
“Mr. Nunes has always been there for the students and the community,” said one parent. “He made a mistake, but he’s human. I don’t think he should lose his job over this.”
The Merced Union High School District has responded to the incident by placing Nunes on administrative leave pending an investigation. In a statement, the district acknowledged the concerns raised by parents and assured the community that they are taking the matter seriously. “The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority,” the statement read. “We are conducting a thorough review of the incident and will take appropriate action based on our findings.”
As the investigation continues, the community remains divided over what the appropriate response should be. The viral nature of the video has amplified the controversy, drawing attention not just locally but across the state.
The incident has also sparked a broader conversation about the role of school leaders and the importance of maintaining professionalism, even in informal or spirited settings. As the district navigates the fallout from the pep rally, the future of Principal Nunes’ position at Buhach Colony High School remains uncertain.
