Auburn Riverside Coach Removed from Soccer Role Following Alleged Inappropriate Video

Teacher Stripped of Coaching Duties, Remains in Classroom

An Auburn Riverside High School teacher has been removed from his position coaching the boys soccer team after an alleged video surfaced showing inappropriate conduct with a student athlete during a team function in the 2025 season. Despite the serious allegations and an active investigation with the Office of Professional Practices at the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), the teacher remains employed by the Auburn School District as a math instructor.

The Auburn School District confirmed it became aware of the video on March 4, 2026. According to multiple sources, the alleged incident occurred during a team dinner at a coach's family residence, a common practice for high school athletic programs. The following day, the teacher was placed on administrative leave from his coaching position.

District Investigation and OSPI Referral Underway

The Auburn School District made an official referral to OSPI on March 18, 2026. In a statement, the district said, "This is an HR matter that has been addressed through corrective action." The district confirmed that "the determination was made after the HR investigation that he will not be returned as a coach but he is currently under contract as a certificated employee."

The district has limited its public disclosure, citing personnel privacy laws. However, the situation raises critical questions about student safety and accountability in Washington's high school athletic community. The teacher's continued presence in classrooms while under investigation by state education officials has sparked concern among parents and community members involved in Auburn Riverside athletics.

What's Next for Auburn Riverside Soccer

Auburn Riverside's boys soccer program now moves forward under new leadership, with a coaching change that comes mid-cycle from the 2025 season. The program, competing in the WIAA system, will need to rebuild trust with student athletes and their families as this investigation continues through the state level.

OSPI's Office of Professional Practices will determine whether the teacher's teaching certificate should face disciplinary action, including potential revocation. The investigation remains active, and the district has indicated it will not provide additional public information while the process unfolds.

For the young athletes at Auburn Riverside, this incident serves as a difficult reminder of the importance of oversight and accountability in youth sports. The program's next chapter will be defined by how quickly it can restore confidence and refocus on the sport these students love to play.

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