Etiwanda High School drama teacher on leave for role in Web series

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. (KABC) -- Typically this time of year, Christian Kiley would be teaching drama at Etiwanda High School in Rancho Cucamonga. But because of his role in an extracurricular Web series, Kiley is being forced to stay home.

That's because in one scene, Kiley is shown smoking what appears to be marijuana.

"The prop that's used is an herbal cigarette, but in the fictitious world of the episode, it's meant to be a marijuana joint," Kiley explained.

The clip that shows Kiley smoking has since been removed, and the director was unwilling to send the scene to Eyewitness News. On top of that, the scene has been re-shot with a new actor.

Still, when Kiley's scene was first posted, the Chaffey Joint Union School District immediately placed Kiley on paid administrative leave.

"It was demoralizing. I really care about my students and I'm very passionate about acting," Kiley said.

Kiley, who just started his 10th year at the school, has been off work for five weeks now.

He said the district told him not to contact any current students, staff or faculty while the investigation is ongoing. He doesn't understand what he did wrong.

"It's a boogeyman of ignorance to a certain extent. I don't think the concerns are founded," he said.

Kiley is now working with an attorney and just wants to get back to work.

"It's been appalling. It's been frustrating. I think Mr. Kiley has properly exercised his First Amendment rights," said William Trejo, Kiley's attorney.

He sends this emotional message to the students he hopes to see again soon: "If I can be that role model for them through this, regardless of what happens, I think that's very important."

District Superintendent Mat Holton told Eyewitness News over the phone that he can't comment on the matter or the investigation to protect the privacy of the employee.