Teacher Wins $287K Settlement Over Charlie Kirk Social Media Row

Michelle Mickens, a former teacher in the Dallas Independent School District, settled her lawsuit against the district for $287,500. The suit arose from disciplinary action she faced after sharing social media posts about Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

Mickens, who taught at a Dallas high school, was placed on leave in 2021 after she posted comments critical of Kirk, who had visited the school. The district investigated her posts and later reassigned her, prompting the lawsuit.

In her complaint, Mickens argued that the district violated her First Amendment rights by punishing her for speech made outside of work hours and off school property. The district maintained that her posts disrupted school operations.

Under the settlement, Mickens will receive the payment, and the district agreed to revise its social media policy for employees. The terms also include a provision that the district will not retaliate against Mickens for pursuing the claim.

Mickens's attorney said the settlement sends a message that public employees do not surrender their free speech rights when they accept a teaching position. The district did not admit wrongdoing as part of the agreement.