Texas teachers are being investigated by the state for what they posted on their personal social media accounts. These posts were made outside of work, on personal time, and in many cases did not affect classrooms or school operations in any way.

After the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, the Texas Education Agency encouraged school districts to report teachers for social media comments the commissioner labeled inappropriate. Hundreds of complaints followed. Even though many were dismissed, dozens of teachers are still under investigation, and some have already faced discipline, termination, or damage to their records.

This is not how free speech works in Texas.

Teachers do not give up their constitutional rights when they earn a paycheck. They are allowed to speak as private citizens on matters of public concern, even when their opinions are unpopular or critical. The law is clear that speech can only be punished if it causes real disruption at work. That standard is not being applied here.

The result has been fear. Teachers have deleted posts, closed accounts, and stopped speaking out on public issues because they are afraid of losing their jobs. That chilling effect is dangerous for a free society and harmful to education.

The Texas Education Agency has not taken similar action when educators commented on the deaths of Democratic lawmakers. That raises serious concerns about selective enforcement and political targeting.

We are calling on Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath and the Texas Education Agency to stop investigating teachers for protected speech made in their personal capacity. The state must retract guidance that pressures school districts to report lawful speech and make clear that educators cannot be disciplined simply for expressing opinions.

Texas teachers should be judged on how they teach, not on their personal political views.

Sign this petition to stand up for free speech, fairness, and the rights of educators across Texas.