Gaston County Schools reviewing ‘insensitive and inappropriate’ social media comments made by employee on Charlie Kirk slaying

GASTON COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Gaston County Schools is addressing concerns after an employee posted what the district calls an “insensitive and inappropriate” comment on social media in connection to the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

In a statement released by the Gaston County Board of Education,

the district acknowledged the incident and thanked community members for bringing it to their attention.

“The Board of Education is aware of an employee posting an insensitive and inappropriate comment on social media regarding the tragedy that occurred yesterday. Thank you to everyone who has brought their concerns to our attention,” the statement read.

The district stated that it has strict policies in place regarding employees’ use of social media and professional conduct, saying that personal views expressed by employees do not reflect the views of the school system.

Currently, the matter is under investigation by the district’s Human Resources Department. However, due to privacy laws, the school district said it cannot comment further.

“Because this is a personnel issue, we cannot share information with the public about the investigation nor can we comment on specific personnel disciplinary action because of the school system’s obligation to employee privacy in compliance with state and federal laws,” Gaston County Schools said.

The school system also stated that all employees are trained every year on professional conduct and responsible social media use. In response to this incident, more training will be offered.

“It is important for school system employees to be reminded that they must uphold a high professional standard at all times because of their role in educating our children,” the statement continued.

The shooting that prompted the post occurred on Wednesday in Utah, where authorities said a sniper assassinated Charlie Kirk. According to law enforcement, the unidentified shooter fled the scene after firing a single shot and has not yet been apprehended. The FBI has released photos of a person of interest and is reviewing surveillance footage.

GCS has not released the identity of the employee involved in the social media incident.