ATWATER, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A Merced Union High School District principal who was seen on video dancing inappropriately with the high school mascot at a back-to-school rally has been placed on leave.

The Merced Union High School District said in a statement that Robert Nunes was placed on leave on Monday following the incident on Friday.

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“This decision is part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all students and staff,” writes district communications director Viviana Fuentes.

In the approximately 40-second video posted on social media, Buhach Colony High School principal Robert Nunes can be seen leaning back on an office chair in the middle of a school gymnasium as the school’s mascot walks toward 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 walks toward him – before placing his hands on the mascot’s chest and sliding them down the mascot’s chest.

Then a group of students joins the two in the middle of the gym and someone asks Nunes if he wants to say something.

“What happens in Buhach stays in Buhach,” Nunes tells the cheering crowd. Then Nunes rolls the mascot out of the room.

In the statement, the Merced Union High School District said its staff will “conduct a comprehensive review of the situation.” Robert Nunes will not participate in any school-related tasks or activities while the investigation is ongoing.

In the meantime, Executive Director Torrin Johnson and Assistant Principal David Rogers are serving as interim principals of Buhach Colony High School.

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