CdM drama teacher is back at work

Corona del Mar High School drama teacher Ron Martin is back on the job, after several days of paid administrative leave.

Martin claims he was investigated for making statements about getting then-Principal Fal Asrani fired, then was placed on leave as a result of the investigation. He maintains he never made such statements.

Martin returned to the campus Monday morning. He took the opportunity during his leave to share his side of the story with the Daily Pilot and other publications.

Spokeswoman Laura Boss of the Newport-Mesa Unified School District said the district is bound by law to not discuss any aspect of the situation, for the sake of all parties involved.

“Just because we are held by the law does not mean that there’s not another side of the story,” Boss said. “The district is legally obligated to protect all students’ rights to confidentiality, including those that have been disciplined. We have the same legal obligation to our employees. We can’t say anything.”

Many people in the community have spoken out against Martin’s claims, saying that under Asrani’s leadership, Corona del Mar High has improved test scores while instituting traditions like Appreciating Diversity Day.

The campus also was declared an Anti-Defamation League “No Place for Hate” school.

Appreciating Diversity Day has featured a number of activities and presentations on subjects like intolerance, HIV/AIDS and various religions.

— Candice Baker