The Florida State Board of Education has issued a warning to schools statewide. It addresses the inappropriate social media remarks made by teachers who seemed to celebrate the assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA.
Anastasios Kamoutsas, a member of the Florida Education Committee, stated he plans to send a memorandum to district supervisors on Thursday. This memorandum aims to investigate “all educators involved in this unacceptable, sanctionable behavior.” Before this communication could be disseminated, reports surfaced of several Florida teachers making headlines for seemingly applauding the tragic death of 31-year-old Kirk.
Kamoutsas expressed concern over the fact that Florida educators have shared distasteful comments regarding Kirk’s assassination, noting that such views do not represent the majority of high-quality teachers in Florida.
He continued, urging supervisors and staff to remember that they hold a higher standard as public servants, citing the Florida Department of Education’s Code of Conduct.
Kamoutsas elaborated, stating that “educators have the right to their opinions, but these shouldn’t compromise their professional responsibilities.” He emphasized that personal beliefs made publicly can erode the trust of students and families, potentially leading to violations of the conduct code.
Moreover, he reminded that Florida law allows the commissioner to take disciplinary action against educators whose personal conduct significantly affects their professional effectiveness. “We look forward to sharing this reminder with all district employees,” he added, encouraging restraint.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis responded positively to Kamoutsas, emphasizing the importance of accountability. He criticized the idea of teachers celebrating the assassination of a father and noted it’s disheartening to see such behavior from some American educators.
Charlie Kirk, a passionate conservative and follower of Christ, was fatally shot while on his “American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University. He is survived by his wife, Erica, and their two young children.
The identity of the assailant remains unknown.
