By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS | September 15, 2025
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — A Montgomery Public Schools (MPS) teacher has been placed on administrative leave after posting a TikTok video that mocked the recent death of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk.
The teacher, identified as Lauren Ogen of Capitol Heights Middle School, reportedly recorded herself celebrating the news of Kirk’s assassination while speaking at a Utah college campus last week. In the video, Ogen allegedly told her daughter, “down with the bigots,” and expressed hope that Kirk’s death had been “traumatic” and that he “suffered.”
“We need this right now. We really need this right now. As a community, we need this win,”Ogen reportedly said in the recording.
The video quickly spread online and drew backlash from parents and community members.
Superintendent Responds
In an email obtained by 1819 News, MPS Superintendent Zickeyous Byrd called the video a clear violation of district policy.
“Out of an abundance of caution for both the safety of the teacher and the school community, I am placing the employee on administrative leave effective immediately,” Byrd wrote. “Furthermore, I will be recommending this teacher for termination at our next Board meeting.The seriousness of the policy violation combined with the safety concerns requires swift action.”
Byrd emphasized the district’s responsibility to maintain a professional and respectful environment for students and staff.
What’s Next
MPS has not provided further comment, and the district’s spokesperson did not return calls on Monday. The case will now move to the MPS Board of Education, where Byrd’s termination recommendation will be considered.
Kirk’s death has drawn national attention, and the teacher’s video added fuel to an already heated political moment. For Montgomery schools, the situation underscores the risks educators face when their social media activity crosses professional boundaries.