Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and the Texas Education Agency (TEA) have announced that more than 100 educators are under investigation and could face suspension of their teaching certifications for social media posts related to the assassination of conservative leader Charlie Kirk.

The TEA said it is reviewing at least 180 complaints alleging that teachers posted comments online that celebrated Kirk’s death or called for violence. If investigators determine those posts violate the state’s educator code of ethics, the teachers could lose their certification and be barred from working in public schools.

Abbott, in a statement, condemned the educators’ actions as “abhorrent” and said Texas would not tolerate teachers who, in his words, “use their platforms to incite violence.”

He directed the TEA to ensure swift investigations and disciplinary action. The governor’s comments were highlighted in coverage by MySanAntonio.com, which reported that Abbott emphasized “teachers who glorify violence have no place in our schools.”

Several districts have already begun taking their own action. According to KTXS-TV, at least two teachers in the Wylie Independent School District resigned after their posts about Kirk drew public backlash. The station also reported that student-teaching placements have been terminated in some cases.

While no suspensions have yet been finalized, state officials stressed that educators found in violation could face permanent consequences. “This isn’t about politics — it’s about safety and ethics in the classroom,” a TEA spokesperson told the Houston Chronicle.

The wave of investigations underscores the growing national debate over how teachers’ conduct on social media intersects with free speech protections and professional responsibilities. For now, the Abbott administration appears determined to make an example of educators accused of crossing the line in the aftermath of Kirk’s killing.