The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is reviewing at least 180 complaints filed against public school educators who made controversial social media posts about the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The incident has stirred strong reactions across the state, raising questions about free speech, ethics, and political influence in education.
What Happened to Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative student organization Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during a public event at Utah Valley University. Authorities are calling it a “political assassination,” sparking outrage and deep political divides nationwide.
His death triggered waves of emotional responses online, including from teachers and school staff across Texas.
While many mourned Kirk’s death, others criticized his political legacy, particularly his stances on abortion, civil rights, and LGBTQ+ issues. Some of those criticisms, posted publicly, have now become the focus of disciplinary action.
Texas Teachers Under Investigation
The TEA confirmed on Monday that it is reviewing social media posts by educators that may have violated the Educators’ Code of Ethics. While no formal investigations have been launched yet, the agency has already taken action in several high-profile cases:
- Klein ISD: A social studies teacher was fired for calling Kirk “racist, homophobic, a misogynist, transphobic nasty person.”
- Goose Creek CISD: A teacher is facing dismissal after suggesting Kirk’s death was the “consequences of his actions.”
- Bilingual Education Institute, Houston: Sarah Rollwitz was terminated over Instagram posts that criticized the public’s reaction to Kirk’s assassination. She claims her firing violated her rights and is considering legal action.
- Midland ISD: An employee has been placed on administrative leave for online comments.
- Wylie ISD: Two educators — a band director and an elementary teacher — resigned after making extreme remarks. One wrote, “Hope he is roasting!”
University Student Arrested After Viral Video
At Texas Tech University, a student was arrested during a memorial event after a video surfaced of her celebrating Kirk’s death. The video gained national attention, and Texas Governor Greg Abbott praised the university’s quick response on social media.
TEA’s Warning and Political Reactions
Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath issued a statement warning educators that “reprehensible” social media posts could result in suspension or loss of teaching licenses. The TEA says it is committed to upholding professional standards, especially in sensitive political matters.
However, teacher organizations are pushing back hard. Zeph Capo, president of the Texas chapter of the American Federation of Teachers, accused the state of misusing its authority.
“It’s a purge of civil servants that starts with teachers,” Capo said. “These attacks on educators for sharing opinions outside the classroom is what happens in authoritarian regimes.”
Free Speech and New Legislative Moves
The situation has now reached the Texas Capitol. Lawmakers have announced new House and Senate committees focused on free speech and civil discourse in higher education.
These groups will review enforcement of recent laws that limit how race, inequality, and history are taught, as well as restrictions on student protests.
This broader political backdrop highlights a growing tension in Texas between personal expression and professional conduct, especially in public education.
The tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk has sparked a fierce wave of reactions across Texas schools. As educators face disciplinary actions for personal social media posts, the debate over free speech, political power, and professional ethics is heating up.
With lawmakers stepping in and teacher groups pushing back, the issue is far from over. For now, teachers across Texas are left wondering just how much personal opinion is too much — even when it’s shared outside the classroom.
