Calabasas, California — A former teacher at Viewpoint School has been charged with possession of child sexual abuse material and child molestation involving multiple students, authorities announced Friday.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to the campus on Mulholland Highway Wednesday afternoon and arrested Travis Shojinaga, 39. He was initially taken into custody on felony charges related to possession of obscene material involving a minor.
Investigation Began After Student Report
Investigators said the case began when an 11-year-old student reported to school officials that her teacher had been taking photos of her and her friends.
Charging documents filed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office allege that on or about February 24, 2026, Shojinaga knowingly possessed or controlled images involving a person under 18 engaged in sexual conduct. Authorities said at least four victims have been identified so far.
Officials also indicated there may be additional students affected, as Shojinaga had reportedly worked at the school for about 10 years.
Bail Set at $1 Million
Shojinaga pleaded not guilty during his initial court appearance and was ordered held on $1 million bail.
If convicted on all charges, prosecutors say he faces up to seven years in state prison and would be required to register as a sex offender for life.
District Attorney Nathan Hochman strongly condemned the allegations.
“The accusations in this case are disgusting and deliberate violations of children’s safety, dignity and rights,” Hochman said. “Anyone who chooses to commit crimes against children, especially on a school campus, will be criminally prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
School Responds
In a statement to local media, Viewpoint School confirmed it had learned of the allegations and immediately contacted law enforcement.
“We immediately launched an investigation and notified the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department’s Lost Hills Station,” the school said. “The employee was subsequently taken into custody, and his employment has been terminated.”
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School officials clarified that the allegations did not involve physical contact.
Viewpoint School serves students from transitional kindergarten through 12th grade, with annual tuition starting at approximately $45,000.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are urging anyone who may have been a victim or who has additional information to contact the Sheriff’s Department Special Victims Bureau.
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to determine whether additional charges may be filed.
What steps do you think schools should take to ensure student safety in cases like this? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
