San Antonio, Texas, October 9, 2025
News Summary
The Texas Education Agency is investigating more than 350 complaints against educators related to comments made on social media following the tragic death of a public figure. Involvement spans across 124 school districts, with several educators facing administrative actions. The agency emphasizes that such social media conduct will not be tolerated, especially if it incites violence. Meanwhile, educators’ unions are expressing concerns about the investigations, highlighting a growing controversy around free speech in educational environments.
San Antonio, Texas – Over 350 Complaints Filed Against Educators for Social Media Posts Regarding Charlie Kirk’s Death
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is currently investigating over 350 complaints against educators and school district staff members concerning comments made about Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically shot and killed during a school event in Utah on September 10, 2025. The investigation spans across 124 school districts in Texas as reported by the TEA.
The TEA clarified that the total number of complaints does not imply that 350 individual educators are under investigation; instead, it encompasses the total number of complaints filed regarding the issue. In Bexar County, several school districts have experienced incidents involving their employees linked to these comments. Specifically, the Northside Independent School District (NISD) has submitted four incidents of alleged inappropriate social media posts to the TEA for review, including instances involving three teachers and a substitute. Meanwhile, the North East Independent School District (NEISD) acknowledged one incident connected to an employee’s social media posts but noted that no direct complaints have been received from parents to the agency.
The San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) has yet to respond to inquiries on this matter, adding to the atmosphere of uncertainty surrounding the investigations. TEA Commissioner Mike Morath condemned certain social media posts as “reprehensible,” emphasizing the agency’s stance that free speech should not be used to celebrate or incite violence against individuals with opposing viewpoints. Furthermore, Republican leaders, including Governor Greg Abbott, have stated that educators found to have “called for or incited violence” regarding Kirk’s death could face serious repercussions, including the loss of their teaching credentials in Texas public schools.
Investigations by the TEA are being handled by a division specializing in serious misconduct cases, with the authority to issue subpoenas if necessary. Several educators have reportedly been placed on administrative leave or suspended due to their comments on social media. Notably, the Grand Prairie Independent School District (ISD) mentioned that two employees were reprimanded for their remarks related to Kirk’s death, although the district concluded that their comments did not incite violence.
In contrast, other districts such as Aldine ISD and Klein ISD have seen employees terminated over the controversy surrounding comments about Kirk’s death. Some districts have publicly stated that they do not have any employees under investigation, seeking to distance themselves from the ongoing scrutiny. As the TEA continues its review of complaints, formal determinations regarding these allegations have yet to be made.
In response to the investigations, the Texas chapter of the American Federation of Teachers has criticized the TEA’s actions, labeling them as a “witch hunt” against educators expressing personal opinions online. Significant urban areas, including Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, are among the districts impacted by these investigations.
Overview of Investigations
- Coordinate with various school districts across Texas.
- TEA Commissioner Mike Morath has called certain comments “reprehensible.”
- Potential hearings and subpoenas may result from ongoing investigations.
- Some educators face administrative leave or termination.
Key Dates
- September 10, 2025: Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at a school event in Utah.
Current Status
- The TEA is still conducting a review of complaints and has not made any formal determinations.
What’s Next?
- Continued investigation and potential sanctions for educators involved.
FAQ Section
What prompted the investigation by the Texas Education Agency (TEA)?
The investigation was prompted by over 350 complaints against educators regarding comments made about Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed at a school event.
How many school districts in Texas are involved in the investigation?
The investigation involves 124 school districts across Texas.
What actions could teachers face as a result of the TEA’s investigations?
Educators found to have incited violence could face sanctions, including the possibility of losing their teaching credentials.
What has been the reaction from educators’ unions?
The Texas chapter of the American Federation of Teachers has criticized the investigations, describing them as a “witch hunt” against educators for their personal opinions.
Key Features of the Investigations
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Complaints | Over 350 complaints filed |
| Number of Districts Involved | 124 school districts |
| Investigative Oversight | TEA’s serious misconduct division |
| Potential Sanctions | Loss of teaching credentials possible |
| Educators’ Response | Criticism from American Federation of Teachers |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Legislature Approves Bill Banning DEI Policies in K-12 Schools
Texas Teachers Facing Legal Charges for Inappropriate Behavior
Former Teacher Arrested for Sexual Assault of Student
Ethics Complaint Filed Against San Antonio Councilwoman
Additional Resources
- Dallas Observer
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
- Houston Chronicle
- Google Search: Charlie Kirk Texas Education Agency
- San Antonio Express-News
- Google Scholar: Texas Education Agency investigation
- KSAT
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Education Agency
- ABC 7 Amarillo
- Google News: Texas educators Charlie Kirk
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
