Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Fired Teacher's Free Speech Case

The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Massachusetts teacher Kari MacRae's appeal after her firing over pre-employment social media posts. The posts, labeled as offensive, led to her termination, sparking a First Amendment lawsuit. Courts ruled that the school had grounds to terminate MacRae, citing potential workplace disruption.

In a pivotal decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear the appeal of a Massachusetts teacher, Kari MacRae, who was fired over controversial social media posts. Her case, rooted in claims of First Amendment violations, has drawn national attention.

MacRae was terminated from her position at Hanover Public Schools in 2021, following the discovery of social media posts made prior to her employment. These posts, characterized by the school as having 'themes of homophobia, transphobia, and racism,' became the focal point of a lawsuit alleging wrongful termination.

The Supreme Court's refusal to take up the case effectively upholds the rulings of lower courts that sided with the school district, citing potential disruption in the workplace as justification for MacRae's dismissal. Justice Clarence Thomas expressed concerns over potential misuse of these precedents against employees with unpopular political views, hinting at future considerations on this issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)