Teacher Reinstated After Controversy over Social Media Statement

A high school in Rhode Island has decided to bring back a teacher who had been on administrative leave for calling murdered Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk “trash.”

In an email from Barrington Public Schools Interim Superintendent Bob Mitchell, it was shared that social studies teacher Benjamin Philo will return to his classroom despite breaching the district’s social media guidelines.

“The teacher involved in the district’s recent independent investigation is expected to resume teaching on December 1st,” Mitchell’s email stated. “The public investigator’s report confirms that the teacher violated the district’s social media policy, causing considerable disruption. Though this is a personnel matter we can’t elaborate on, we aim to maintain high standards for employee conduct.”

Following Kirk’s assassination on September 10, Philo reportedly claimed in a video that Kirk “hates the LGBTQ community” and “hates women’s rights” during a talk at Utah Valley University.

After that post, Philo added, “He thought he was proving how tough he was with his words… what a piece of trash. Watch what happens… Goodbye, Charlie!”

Mitchell mentioned the controversy in his email, acknowledging that the district has been in the national spotlight recently, with students facing online hostility and a more challenging educational atmosphere. “We aim for our students and staff to feel safe and supported as we stabilize school operations,” he noted.

Heather Ryan, a parent of a student at Barrington High School, expressed her disappointment in the school’s decision. “It’s really unfortunate to see a teacher returning after violating multiple school regulations. Celebrating a political assassination is disturbing, and my family is unsettled by this situation,” she said. “We realize that outside organizations are pressuring the district and its officials.”

A district representative stated that the independent investigation concluded and that while Philo would be returning, specifics about the case cannot be shared due to human resource privacy.

The district is also enhancing safety protocols and collaborating with several law enforcement agencies to ensure a secure environment. “Students who require assistance or space to cope with recent developments will have access to school counselors and mental health resources,” Mitchell mentioned.

In a broader context, the Barrington School Committee noted concerns about backlash from teachers’ unions and the potential financial implications of any litigation. They emphasized that they aim to protect the district from costly legal issues while ensuring stability in leadership.

Lastly, it was reported that conservative activist Nicole Solas submitted a public records request to review Philo’s teaching materials, facing a hefty fee from the school for access.