Phoenix HS football coach suspended over alleged student behavior
Nov 15, 2019, 3:57 PM | Updated: Nov 18, 2019, 7:48 pm
(Google Street View)
(Google Street View)
PHOENIX – A Phoenix high school head football coach was suspended this week as authorities looked into allegations about “inappropriate behavior” among students in the boys’ locker room.
The Phoenix Union High School District said Friday that Adan Mendoza was placed on administrative leave from his coaching position at North High School as well as his job as a physical education and health teacher.
The district said Monday that it was made aware of a video filmed at the high school that allegedly includes students from the school.
“Once it was brought to our attention, we immediately notified local authorities,” the district said in a statement. “At this point, the investigation is active and involves minors, hence the privacy and protection of all involved remain a high priority.”
In addition, the end-of-season football banquet scheduled for Friday night was postponed, the district said.
The district said it was cooperating with law enforcement on the ongoing investigation into the unspecified allegations.
School parents were notified about the allegations Thursday with the following letter:
We have recently become aware of concerns about inappropriate behavior that allegedly occurred between students in the boys’ locker room at North High School during the fall sports season. We take all reported allegations seriously and have launched an investigation. As a part of the investigation, we are working with local authorities to determine the extent and severity of the reported behaviors.
This morning, we reached out to all parents of students who were potentially involved. If we believe that more students were involved, we will reach out individually to parents and families. The investigation is active, and we will provide updates as appropriate.
The safety and wellbeing of all students and staff is our highest priority, and we appreciate your ongoing support.
No other information about the incident was made available.
North High School is located at Thomas Road and 12th Street.
