According to WLNE-TV in Massachusetts, the students publicly called for the dismissal of Barrington High School teacher Benjamin Fillo after he reportedly criticized Kirk in a social media video. In the clip, Fillo referred to Kirk as a “piece of garbage” and made a series of unverified claims about the late Turning Point USA founder.

The post quickly sparked public outrage, prompting school officials to place Fillo on administrative leave while the incident is investigated. The students’ response underscores the sensitivity surrounding Kirk’s death and highlights the broader debate over the boundaries of personal expression, social media conduct, and professional responsibility in schools.

Rhode Island Students Condemn Teacher for Celebrating Charlie Kirk’s Death

Three students at Barrington High School in Rhode Island have publicly criticized their social studies teacher, Benjamin Fillo, after he allegedly celebrated the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on social media.

In a TikTok video that sparked outrage among parents and students, Fillo called Kirk a “piece of garbage” and attacked his character. “This is a man who hated the LGBTQ community, who hated women’s rights, who hated democracy, who thought that he was a big man because he went to college campuses, and debated young college students, and thought he proved how tough he was with his words that he studied ahead of time,” Fillo said. “What a piece of garbage. This is what happens. Bye, Charlie.”

The video drew swift condemnation from the school community. At a Monday board meeting attended by parents and staff, three of Fillo’s own students spoke out against him, according to the New York Post.

“No matter what anyone says to me, I will never stand for violence, especially of a man who was publicly murdered in front of his wife, one of his children, thousands of students, and other bystanders,” said student Jakari. “Charlie was not a racist, he did not hurt anyone sexually, and he did not kill anyone. Therefore, this was an unjustified cause of death and should never be celebrated. The teacher deserves to lose his job.”

Another student, Caleb, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing moral responsibility. “As civilians and people of our great country, we hold ourselves to a higher standard than to support — or worse yet — rejoice in violence,” he said. “Someone who advocated for an arrested murderer and assassin of one of the greatest debaters and free speakers of our time should have no place in the classroom, especially around young children.”

The third student, Brandon, framed his objection in spiritual terms. “As a student of Barrington High, I did not feel comfortable or safe with our teachers supporting violence,” he said. “We believe this world needs God, because something as cruel as this should never be celebrated.”

Fillo, who has taught at the school for 15 years, has since been placed on administrative leave. The school has hired a private investigator to review the incident as part of its ongoing response.