A STEM teacher at Robert O. Townsend Junior High School in Chino Hills, California, was arrested on Thursday after staff members reported that he appeared to be under the influence of alcohol while teaching.
The San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies responded to the call at approximately 11:20 a.m. and determined that the teacher, 49-year-old Clifford Harper, was intoxicated. Harper was subsequently escorted off the school premises and booked into the West Valley Detention Center. He may face charges of public intoxication and child endangerment.
In a letter sent to parents, the school administration informed them that Harper had been placed on administrative leave while an investigation is conducted. The incident has left students and parents shocked, as Harper was highly regarded as an "amazing" and passionate teacher.
One former student, Hanna Vanpelt, expressed her disbelief, stating, "That's so crazy, I did not expect that at all. Even my sister right now has him for third period. It's just scary. Why is he doing that?"
Harper, a resident of Rancho Cucamonga, has been teaching STEM and an introduction to technology class at the school. His curriculum includes the use of woodshop machines and other equipment. Despite the allegations, the school maintains its reputation as a "California Distinguished School," as seen in news footage captured outside the premises.
Harper was later released from custody. Records from the Transparent California website reveal that he has been employed by the Chino Valley Unified School District for at least the past ten years. Chino Hills, a suburb located approximately 36 miles east of Los Angeles, is now grappling with the aftermath of this unexpected incident.
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