The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is investigating nearly 180 complaints against teachers accused of making inappropriate online comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Gov. Greg Abbott said the cases involve more than 100 educators, alleging some statements “called for or incite violence.”
TEA Commissioner Mike Morath said he would recommend suspending teaching licenses for educators disciplined in the probe. “While all educators are held to a high standard of professionalism, there is a difference between comments made in poor taste and those that call for and incite further violence — the latter of which is clearly unacceptable,” he said.
At least six school districts have already taken action, including firings in Klein and Ector County Independent School Districts. Republican lawmakers have pressed districts to act more quickly, with Rep. Steve Toth (R-Conroe) saying teachers who condoned Kirk’s killing “have no place in the lives of Texas children.”
Critics argue the crackdown threatens free expression. Zeph Capo, president of Texas’ American Federation of Teachers, said the investigations amount to “silencing dissent” and punishing educators for personal social media use.
Texas lawmakers have also created new committees to examine free speech and bias in state universities, framed as “honoring the life and legacy” of Kirk.
Sources
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