A California middle school teacher has been placed on leave after a video emerged that appears to show him urinating into a cup inside his classroom just moments before students walked in.
The recording, captured by a student and later shared with families, set off outrage at Granite Oaks Middle School in Rocklin, where officials confirmed they are investigating what they described as conduct ‘inconsistent with our professional standards.’
The father-of-three was identified by students as Dan Champ, an eighth-grade history teacher and Associated Student Body adviser with more than 25 years of experience, according to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
Video obtained by The Sacramento Bee appears to show Champ unbuttoning his pants and urinating into a container just out of view of the camera.
As he adjusts his clothing, he can be heard saying, ‘Gosh, that’s good – gosh gosh gosh gosh gosh gosh.’
Moments later, while picking up the container and walking across the room, he says, ‘love it, love it.’ A pouring sound is then audible off camera.
About one minute later, the school bell rings and students begin entering the classroom.
Whispering and giggling can be heard before the video ends.
The footage does not appear to show any students present while the incident occurred.
School leaders said they first learned of the video on February 25 after a parent and a staff member brought it to administrators’ attention. Families then received a message later that day confirming immediate action.
‘This afternoon, after school dismissal, a parent and a staff member informed the School Administration of a video showing an employee engaging in conduct inconsistent with our professional standards,’ the email states.
‘While the unverified video does not involve any students or other staff, the employee has been placed on leave while Granite Oaks Middle School and the Rocklin Unified School District investigate the incident.
‘Although we are unable to share specific details, this matter is being taken seriously and will be addressed in accordance with applicable policies, procedures, and legal requirements.’
An eighth-grade student who was previously enrolled in Champ’s class told The Bee she had heard rumors earlier in the school year that he would urinate into a container between classes. Her mother requested anonymity due to privacy concerns.