Principal On Leave After Grade Fixing Scandal

LODI, Calif. (CBS13) -- A well-liked, experienced school principal is on paid administrative leave after he was accused of fixing grades for students.

The Stockton Record has reported that Liberty High School principal Robert Rivas is at the center of an investigation focusing on whether grades were changed to help kids receive the money they need to attend college.

Officials with the school board and the Lodi Unified School District haven't released details on the investigation, but a source confirms to CBS13 that teachers at Liberty High School were questioned about those allegations.

The school district said they are concerned, but pointed out that Rivas has a stellar track record as a principal.

"Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for the students and teachers at the schools he has served… it is important to everyone in the Lodi Unified School District that there be no rush to judgment," the district said in a statement.

Lodi Education Association President Jeff Johnston said he has worked with Rivas and was stunned to hear about the accusations.

"I know him to be a man of honor and integrity, so I was greatly concerned to see his name associated with these allegations," Johnston said. "I hope sincerely that they are not true."

Concerned parents said the district has only told them they have opened an investigation into incidents that were brought to their attention.

"It's just allegations, so until they get their hard evidence, anybody can throw anything out there," parent Karen Forster said. "But if he's found to be guilty then I would say he probably needs to be terminated."

Rivas has worked at the high school since 1997 and has been with the district for almost 20 years.