Two educators in the Hallsville School District are on paid administrative leave after posting what some are calling contentious remarks on social media about the death of Charlie Kirk. The conservative activist was shot and killed last week at a Utah college.
Multiple people including, State Rep. John Martin, R-Columbia, have called for the Hallsville School District to fire the employees over the post. But Dave Roland, Director of Litigation Freedom of Missouri, told Missourinet that teachers do not surrender their first amendment rights just simply because they accept public employment.
“I only saw one teacher statement saying that he felt no remorse for the fact that Charlie Kirk had been killed, so that is protected speech,” said Roland. “The exceptions to free speech are very, very few, and they include things like true threats.”
Roland said the this is absolutely protected speech.
“I find it ironic and incredibly disheartening that so many people in Charlie Kirk’s name are advocating a course of action that Charlie Kirk himself not only would never have endorsed, he would have found it anathema,” said Roland. “Charlie Kirk, for whatever disagreements anyone might have with him, he truly believes in free speech.”
The Hallsville School District addressed the matter in a letter to parents. The entire letter can be read below.
Update from Hallsville Schools
Hallsville School District Families,
The Hallsville School District acknowledges the public attention surrounding social media statements made by two of our staff members.
We want to clarify that social media posts made by employees of the school district in their personal capacities and outside of their school duties do not reflect the opinions of the District or the Board of Education, nor are they endorsed in any way by the District. As a public school district, we recognize that our role is to create a learning environment where all students feel safe and valued.
Please know that we take all concerns seriously and are carefully reviewing the matter in accordance with Board policy and applicable law. In the meantime, the staff members have voluntarily removed the posts. Because this is a confidential personnel matter, additional details cannot be shared. Consistent with our policies and procedures, the employees involved have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of this review.
The safety and well-being of our staff and students remain our highest priority. We are committed to ensuring that our schools continue to provide a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment for all students and families.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
Copyright © 2025 · Missourinet