The Modesto High School band teacher arrested on suspicion of having an inappropriate relationship with a 15-year-old student has been placed on administrative leave with pay, officials said Sunday.
Modesto City Schools Superintendent Arturo Flores said band teacher Lewis Wilhelm's leave will last as long as the investigation takes.
Wilhelm, who was released on $25,000 bail, could not be reached for comment Saturday or Sunday.
Administrative leave is a "typical procedure" during pending investigations, Flores said.
"While we put the pieces together, it's in the officials' hands," Flores said. "We're listening to the police. We will be taking their advice."
Flores said he planned to meet with Mo-desto High Principal Hugo Ramos today to decide who will lead the band during the investigation.
Ramos said Sunday he had planned meetings with students, parents and band members. He was working on finding someone to supervise the band and color guard.
"They have a full schedule next week, so we're going to have somebody in there next week," he said. "We're going to do everything possible to maintain the integrity of the marching band."
Bee staff writer Emilie Raguso can be reached at eraguso@modbee.com or 578-2235.
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