Texas Teacher Resigns Amid Review of Social Media Posts
A teacher employed by the Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) has resigned while undergoing a formal employment review related to comments she made on social media. District officials confirmed that Jennifer Courtemanche submitted her resignation on November 24, before the conclusion of a termination process initiated earlier by the school board.
The review stemmed from posts Courtemanche shared online following the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Screenshots of the posts circulated widely after being shared by Texas State Representative Briscoe Cain, prompting public scrutiny and media coverage, including reporting by The Houston Chronicle.
In the posts, Courtemanche questioned the circumstances surrounding Kirk’s death and made statements that many readers interpreted as political commentary. The remarks quickly gained attention online and led to concerns regarding professional conduct.
Employment Status and District Response
At the time the posts surfaced, Courtemanche was listed on social media as an English language arts teacher at Baytown’s Lee High School, though her account has since been restricted. In her online profile, she described herself as a “child of God” and a “work in progress.”
According to district officials, Courtemanche initially informed the school system that she did not plan to resign voluntarily and retained legal representation as the review process moved forward.
Under the Goose Creek CISD Employee Handbook, staff members may be subject to disciplinary action—including termination—if electronic communications violate applicable laws or interfere with their ability to carry out professional responsibilities.
While there were public calls for her removal, including statements from Rep. Cain, district leaders emphasized that Texas law requires a structured, multi-step process before a teacher’s contract can be terminated.
The Formal Review Process
On September 22, the Goose Creek CISD Board of Trustees voted to propose Courtemanche’s termination. Under Texas law, educators have the right to request a hearing before an independent examiner appointed by the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
That examiner is granted up to 60 days to conduct an evidentiary hearing and issue a recommendation. The school board then determines whether sufficient cause exists to terminate the contract. District officials stated that this process would have continued had Courtemanche not chosen to resign.
The district also reviewed comments made by another teacher related to the same incident but concluded that those remarks did not meet the threshold required for termination.
Broader Statewide Context
Following the death of Charlie Kirk, the Texas Education Agency reported receiving more than 350 complaints concerning educators’ social media activity connected to the incident.
Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath addressed the issue in a letter to school superintendents, underscoring the limits of free expression in professional settings.
“While free speech is a fundamental right,” Morath wrote, “it does not extend to encouraging, celebrating, or promoting harm toward individuals with differing beliefs.”
The statement highlighted the responsibility educators have to maintain professional standards, particularly in public forums.
Public Response From Kirk’s Family
In the weeks following her husband’s death, Erika Kirk addressed public commentary and speculation surrounding the tragedy. During an appearance on Fox News’ Outnumbered, she spoke emotionally about the impact the situation has had on her family and on members of Turning Point USA, the organization her husband helped build.
She criticized individuals who, she said, have used the tragedy to generate attention or financial gain, and she appealed for privacy and respect for her children.
Erika Kirk emphasized that while she can endure personal criticism, she draws a line when attacks involve her family and those close to her. She also spoke about concerns for maintaining dignity and peace during moments of mourning.
Ongoing Discussion About Professional Conduct
The situation has renewed broader conversations about social media use by public employees, particularly educators, and how personal expression intersects with professional responsibilities. School districts across Texas continue to evaluate policies to ensure compliance with state law while balancing individual rights and community standards.
The resignation of Jennifer Courtemanche has drawn attention to a broader debate regarding educators’ use of social media and the boundaries of professional conduct. In recent years, teachers and school staff have increasingly maintained public profiles on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. While these platforms allow personal expression and community engagement, they also create a risk that off-duty comments may affect one’s professional standing.
School districts across the United States face the ongoing challenge of balancing employees’ First Amendment rights with their obligation to maintain safe, respectful, and inclusive educational environments. In Texas, state law specifically outlines the procedures and limitations regarding disciplinary actions for educators, particularly when off-campus speech intersects with public duties.
Courtemanche’s posts, which questioned the circumstances surrounding Charlie Kirk’s death, illustrate how statements made in personal capacities can be subject to official scrutiny. According to Goose Creek CISD officials, the district had no discretion to immediately terminate her without completing the structured review process mandated by law. This ensures fairness while allowing the board to evaluate whether speech or behavior rises to the level of “good cause” for contract termination.
Legal Safeguards for Teachers
Texas law provides teachers the right to contest proposed termination through an independent hearing process. Once a board votes to propose termination, educators may request an evidentiary review by an examiner appointed by the Texas Education Agency. The examiner reviews all relevant evidence, conducts hearings if necessary, and submits a recommendation regarding the case. The school board then makes a final determination.
This multi-step process is designed to protect employees from arbitrary dismissal while upholding community standards and legal obligations. In Courtemanche’s case, her decision to resign preempted the full process, effectively ending the formal termination review. However, the structured process remains in place for other similar cases, ensuring consistency and fairness across the state.
Social Media Policies in School Districts
Most school districts, including Goose Creek CISD, have clear policies outlining acceptable behavior for staff members on digital platforms. The district handbook notes that electronic communications that violate state or federal law or interfere with an employee’s professional responsibilities may lead to disciplinary action, including suspension or termination.
Social media policies are increasingly emphasized in teacher training and professional development. Educators are encouraged to consider the public nature of online platforms and the potential impact of their statements on students, colleagues, and the broader community. Many districts provide guidance on maintaining professionalism, addressing sensitive topics carefully, and avoiding content that could be perceived as inflammatory or harmful.
Public Reactions and Ethical Considerations
The Courtemanche situation also highlights the role of public reaction in professional oversight. When posts go viral, they can generate intense scrutiny from media, community members, and political figures. In this case, screenshots shared by Texas Representative Briscoe Cain amplified the public conversation and prompted additional attention from national media outlets.
While some community members argued for immediate action, district officials emphasized that due process must be followed to ensure fairness. The case underscores the ethical responsibilities of educators and the need for clear guidelines on online behavior. It also illustrates the tension between freedom of speech and professional accountability in roles that serve public interests.
The Emotional Toll on Families
Beyond legal and policy implications, the case has a deeply personal dimension. Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk, spoke publicly about the impact of online commentary on her family. During a television interview, she described feeling targeted by individuals who used the tragedy for attention or personal gain. She called for respect and privacy for her children and loved ones while emphasizing the emotional strain caused by public scrutiny.
Her comments highlight the human consequences of social media discourse, particularly when discussions involve sensitive topics like personal loss or political affiliations. While freedom of expression remains protected, ethical considerations suggest a need for empathy and awareness of the potential impact on others.
Statewide Trends and Complaints
Courtemanche’s case is not isolated. Following Charlie Kirk’s death, the Texas Education Agency reported receiving over 350 complaints related to teachers’ social media activity. These complaints reflect a growing awareness among parents, community members, and officials regarding the intersection of personal speech and professional responsibilities.
Commissioner Mike Morath emphasized in a letter to superintendents that while teachers have the right to free speech, it does not permit them to promote or celebrate violence or harm. His guidance underscores the expectation that educators act responsibly, both on and off campus, and avoid content that could compromise the safety or inclusivity of their learning environments.
Broader Implications for School Districts
Cases like this one are prompting school districts nationwide to reevaluate policies and procedures for social media oversight. Many districts are implementing additional training sessions, clarifying acceptable conduct, and providing examples of posts that could constitute a violation of professional standards.
Administrators are also balancing the need for oversight with the importance of protecting teachers’ legal rights. Ensuring fairness while maintaining public trust requires careful attention to policy enforcement and communication with staff members. These measures aim to prevent conflicts before they arise and create a culture of responsibility and accountability within educational institutions.
Lessons for Educators
For educators, the incident serves as a cautionary example of the risks associated with public commentary on sensitive topics. Teachers are encouraged to:
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Maintain awareness of the public nature of online platforms
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Avoid sharing content that could be interpreted as promoting harm or targeting individuals
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Understand the policies of their district regarding electronic communication
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Consider the potential impact on students, families, and the community
By following these guidelines, educators can navigate social media responsibly while maintaining personal expression within safe and professional boundaries.
Community Engagement and Moving Forward
The resignation of Courtemanche also opens a conversation about the role of public engagement and dialogue in shaping school environments. Communities play a critical role in holding educators accountable while also supporting fair processes and upholding the rights of staff members.
Moving forward, Goose Creek CISD and other districts may continue to refine social media policies, provide guidance on online communication, and emphasize the importance of professional conduct. These steps are part of a broader effort to ensure that schools remain safe, respectful, and inclusive spaces for learning.
Conclusion
Jennifer Courtemanche’s resignation highlights the complex intersection of social media, professional accountability, and public oversight in education. While the posts she shared sparked widespread attention, the structured review process required by Texas law ensured that due process was observed.
The case serves as a reminder for educators, administrators, and the public that freedom of expression carries responsibilities. Maintaining professional standards online, balancing legal rights with community expectations, and fostering a respectful digital environment are increasingly critical in an era where personal and professional lives intersect on social media.
The situation also underscores the emotional dimension of public discourse, as families and communities navigate grief, commentary, and ethical considerations. Through careful policy enforcement, clear guidance, and responsible communication, school districts aim to uphold fairness, safety, and integrity while supporting the educators who shape the next generation.