Auburn Riverside Teacher Stripped of Soccer Coaching Role Following Alleged Inappropriate Video

District Takes Action on Coach, Questions Remain on Employment Status

An Auburn Riverside High School teacher has been removed from his coaching position after an allegedly inappropriate video surfaced from a 2025 soccer team function, according to multiple sources. The incident raises serious questions about accountability and student safety within Washington State's high school athletic programs, even as the teacher remains employed by the Auburn School District in a classroom role.

The video, which allegedly captured the teacher engaging in inappropriate physical contact with a male student athlete during a team dinner at a coach's residence, came to the district's attention on March 4, 2026. Within 24 hours, the teacher was placed on leave from his coaching duties. The Auburn School District confirmed the video's existence and the removal from coaching in a statement, though officials declined to provide extensive details, citing personnel matter confidentiality.

Investigation Underway as Teacher Remains in Classroom

The Auburn School District made a formal referral to the Office of Professional Practices with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) on March 18, 2026, launching an official investigation. Following an internal HR investigation, the district determined the teacher would not return as a coach. However, the certificated employee remains under contract and continues working within the district.

The timeline raises concerns about how long the investigation process may take and what protections exist for students during that period. The teacher is currently functioning as a math teacher while OSPI evaluates the allegations, meaning he maintains daily contact with student populations.

High school athletic programs across Washington rely heavily on coaches who often develop strong relationships with their athletes. Team functions outside of school grounds are routine in WIAA-affiliated programs throughout the state. This incident highlights the importance of oversight and clear protocols for all school-sponsored activities, regardless of location.

The Auburn School District's statement emphasized that "corrective action" has been taken, though the specifics of that action remain undisclosed. The district has not answered questions about whether additional safeguards have been implemented or what the timeline looks like for the OSPI investigation's completion.

What's Next for Auburn Riverside Athletics

Auburn Riverside High School's boys soccer program will continue under new coaching leadership as the investigation proceeds. The program, which competes in the 4A classification within the WIAA, will need to rebuild trust and demonstrate its commitment to creating a safe environment for all student athletes.

As Washington State's high school sports community processes this incident, the case underscores the ongoing need for rigorous background checks, clear behavioral standards, and responsive administrative action whenever allegations of inappropriate conduct surface involving coaches and student athletes.

This article was created with AI assistance. Stats and results sourced from public records.