Buhach Colony High School Principal Robert Nunes has been placed on 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, August 16, was posted on social media and many people consider it inappropriate.

The MUHSD issued a statement saying Nunes had been placed on leave. “This decision is part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment,” district spokeswoman Viviana Fuentes said.

Nunes was placed on leave on Monday, August 19.

“The district is conducting a comprehensive review of the situation,” Fuentes added. “While the investigation is ongoing, Mr. Nunes will not participate in any school-related duties or activities.”

The video shows Nunes sitting while the school mascot dances in front of him. Nunes then fires a gold confetti cannon. Nunes then stands up and switches places with the mascot. Nunes dances in front of the seated mascot, puts his hands on Thor’s chest and pushes him away.

Then Nunes grabs a microphone and says: “What happens in Buhach stays in Buhach.”

Students commented online that the rally had the motto “Las Vegas.”

Comments on social media were mixed.

“I don’t think this is appropriate!” commented one person on Facebook. Another person said: “This is disturbing. Very offensive.”

Other people took to social media to defend Nunes.

“This principal was great and cleaned things up,” one parent said on Facebook. “I have two kids that go to school here and I’m not offended. It blew up MASSIVELY.”

This is Nunes’ first year as principal of Buhach Colony. He served for years as the district’s assistant principal at El Capitan and Atwater high schools.

According to Fuentes, MUHSD Executive Director Torrin Johnson and Buhach Colony Assistant Principal David Rogers will serve as acting principals during the interim period.

“We are confident that Mr. Johnson and Mr. Rogers will provide effective guidance during this time and uphold the values ​​of the MUHSD,” Fuentes said.