The Texas Education Agency has launched an investigation into nearly 180 complaints against teachers accused of making inappropriate comments online about the recent death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The move comes as several school districts across the state have already disciplined staff, with some educators fired for their posts. Kirk was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University, prompting both grief and outrage, and a wave of scrutiny toward educators who were alleged to have mocked or celebrated his death. Read More
On Monday, Governor Greg Abbott said more than 100 teachers were implicated in complaints and alleged that some of their online remarks “called for or incite violence.” TEA Commissioner Mike Morath issued a statement noting he would recommend the State Board for Educator Certification suspend the licenses of teachers found in violation, emphasizing that while poor taste is one issue, actively calling for violence is “clearly unacceptable.”
At least six school districts have already taken action. Klein Independent School District terminated a teacher over comments about Kirk, while Ector County Independent School District fired a part-time tutor and placed another employee on administrative leave. Both districts stressed the comments did not represent the values of their schools.
The investigations have fueled a sharp debate over free speech and political pressure. Critics, including the Texas branch of the American Federation of Teachers, called the crackdown authoritarian and a violation of First Amendment rights. Union president Zeph Capo said the probes amount to “a statewide directive to hunt down and fire educators for opinions shared on their personal social media accounts,” warning that dissent among educators is being silenced.
Republican lawmakers have publicly backed the disciplinary actions. Rep. Steve Toth of Conroe said in a social media post that teachers condoning Kirk’s assassination are “insanely hateful and violent” and should not be around children. Meanwhile, state leaders are broadening the inquiry to higher education. Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced the creation of two new committees tasked with examining free speech and bias at state universities while “honoring the life and legacy” of Kirk.
The controversy comes after two professors were already dismissed earlier this year for comments captured in videos posted online, highlighting growing tension over political speech, professional responsibility, and academic freedom in Texas.
