The Coronado Police Department launched an investigation May 25 into a situation involving a Coronado High School employee after students were sent “inappropriate material” on their smartphones.
The Coronado Unified School District placed the employee, who was not identified, on paid administrative leave. Police did not provide any additional details.
However, nine students and two parents told The Coronado News that many students on May 24 were sent screenshots of a shirtless male who resembled an administrator at the school.
The pictures appeared to have come from a dating app and had the caption “Chill & Packing,” the students and parents told the newspaper.
Photos airdropped into smartphones
They also said the photos were airdropped into the smartphones of students during second period and lunch. It’s unclear how the photos were sent to the students.
Students also made copies of the pictures and placed them in the bathrooms of the school and took pictures on the SnapChat app, The Coronado News was told. They added the photos were circulated at Coronado Middle School as well.
Students also said an inappropriate video of the same adult faculty member began circulating later in the day. The faculty member was last seen on campus following an assembly around noon on May 24, they said.
“We recognize the significance and potential impact this case may have on the community, and we are mobilizing our resources and expertise to conduct a comprehensive investigation,” the police department said.
The police investigation comes as the district is suing social media companies, alleging they cause mental anguish and depression for students.
“Unsolicited and inappropriate material”
Coronado High School on May 25 sent a message to parents acknowledging that “a large number of CHS students inadvertently or unwillingly received unsolicited and inappropriate material shared among students on their smartphones yesterday.”
The high school message went on to say: “In support of students, the district has moved clinical counselors from all district sites to the high school campus for as long as the need remains.
If your child wants an adult to talk to or needs help processing this event, please have them reach out to one of our counselors….Your children are our priority, and our professional and dedicated staff are focused and committed to ensuring that we finish the year strong and our students feel safe and supported.”
Integrity of investigation
Meanwhile, the police department declined to answer questions from The Coronado News. However, it issued a statement.
“As this investigation progresses, we understand the concerns and questions that may arise within the community. While we recognize the importance of transparency, we must also protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation. We assure you that updates will be provided within the boundaries allowed by the sensitivity of the case.
“We are immensely grateful for the continued support and understanding that you, as community members, have shown us. Your cooperation is invaluable to us as we work towards resolving this investigation. Above all else, please be assured that our utmost priority remains to ensure the safety and well-being of every citizen.
If you have any information regarding this investigation, please contact Detective Danielle Adams at dladams@coronado.ca.us”
Employee on paid leave
Maria Simon, spokeswoman for the Coronado Unified School, declined to comment.
The district issued a statement that said:
“Coronado Unified School District has placed a Coronado High School employee on paid
administrative leave pending an investigation. The investigation does not involve any CUSD
student/s.
Administrative leave is a normal procedural step to protect both the integrity of an investigation and due process. We are working in cooperation with the Coronado Police Department to ensure that a thorough and timely investigation is completed.
We realize this raises more questions than we are able to answer at this time. Please be
assured that the wellbeing of our students is our priority and the dedicated professionals at our schools remain focused on ensuring student success as we finish the school year.”
