School official regrets flipping the bird

Jen Zettel-Vandenhouten | USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

NEENAH - A Neenah High School associate principal learned the hard way how quickly news travels online.

Chad Buboltz was in a meeting with other administrators learning how to use a Google live streaming tool, when he gave the camera the middle finger.

"Chad was at his computer giving a message and some other people were on another computer seeing if it worked," said Jim Strick, communications manager for the Neenah Joint School Disrict.

A recording of the session was posted online.

Strick said the district didn't know who posted the original video, but it has since been removed. A few people snagged the video before it went down, and copies can still be found online. About 1,800 views have been recorded on the versions online.

In a statement, the district said Buboltz learned "a valuable lesson" when he "unknowingly recorded an inappropriate gesture."

Neenah High School Principal Brian Wunderlich sent an email to parents notifying them that Buboltz apologized to students over the PA system.

"Mr. Buboltz is fully aware of the ramifications of his unprofessional behavior. This morning he started the day with an announcement to staff and students owning his inappropriate actions and apologizing for them," he said. "I apologize for the negative attention this event has brought to Neenah High School. Please know we care deeply about making Neenah High School a place all stakeholders can be proud of."

Citing confidentiality policies, Strick said he could not comment on any disciplinary action the school district is taking.

The district said the video is a reminder for everyone to be cognizant of their online presence.

"While the Neenah Joint School District expects its students to engage in appropriate online behavior, the same is expected of all staff members," the statement said.

Jen Zettel: 920-993-1000, ext. 539, or jennifer.zettel@gannettwisconsin.com; on Twitter @jenzettel