Timberlane teacher resigns after Facebook post on Charlie Kirk’s death

PLAISTOW, NH — A Timberlane Regional High School teacher has resigned following backlash over a Facebook post in which he said he was “glad” about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Ed Tinney, who taught English and history at Timberlane, submitted his resignation effective Sept. 25 after district officials placed him on leave and launched an investigation. He had been with the school for more than three decades.

The controversy began when Tinney shared a lengthy Facebook post reflecting on American society. In it, he criticized what he called the myth of a “civil society,” listing groups he said face discrimination, including the poor, racial minorities, women, and people who are gay or disabled. The post concluded with the statement, “And, yeah, I’m glad he’s dead,” in reference to Kirk, who was killed in a recent shooting.

The message circulated quickly online, drawing sharp condemnation from community members, parents, and political figures. Critics said the remarks were inappropriate for someone in a teaching role, particularly because they celebrated the death of a public figure.

Timberlane School Administrative Unit 106 initially responded by placing Tinney on paid leave while conducting an internal review. In a Sept. 25 statement, Superintendent Justin Krieger and School Board Chair Katie Knutsen emphasized that the district “does not support political violence in any form” and said the post “does not reflect or represent the values of the Timberlane Regional School District.”

By Friday, the district announced Tinney’s resignation. “The post in question, which was made on a personal account outside of school, generated a significant amount of public comment and raised questions for students, family members, and staff from across the school district,” officials said in a press release. “After conversations with the employee, the District is announcing that the employee has resigned, effective September 25, 2025.”

In his own resignation statement posted to Facebook, Tinney expressed regret for the fallout and said his words had caused “unintended disruption within the community.” He defended his career in education, writing that he had long been committed to “encouraging critical thinking, respectful dialogue, and the responsible exchange of ideas.”

“While I regret that my words may have caused pain or confusion, I believe it is in the best interest of my students, colleagues, and the school community that I step aside at this time,” Tinney wrote. He also thanked generations of students and educators he had worked with over 35 years, saying he leaves “with appreciation for the support I’ve received and pride in the work I’ve done.”

The incident has fueled broader debates about the boundaries of free speech for public employees, particularly teachers, and the standards to which educators are held in their personal and professional lives.

For some in the community, Tinney’s resignation was the only acceptable outcome. Parents argued that teachers hold a position of trust and should avoid language that condones violence or death, even in a personal setting. Others defended his right to express personal views on a private social media account, while acknowledging the impact such comments can have when shared publicly.

The controversy also comes amid heightened political tensions nationwide. Conservatives have pointed to the episode as further evidence that political violence and rhetoric disproportionately target figures on the right.

While Tinney will no longer be in the classroom, the district’s handling of the matter is likely to remain a point of discussion within the community. Timberlane officials have stressed that their focus remains on ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment for students.