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.
