PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A Battle Ground teacher has been reinstated after it was determined “false allegations” led to her original firing, according to a union representing educators.
The Battle Ground Education Association said false claims were made about educator Amanda Gonzales, alleging she had made a negative comment about political figure Charlie Kirk after his assassination.
A student originally made the false claim, which was posted by the student’s mother on social media, BGEA said. The post gained widespread attention online. Gonzales was fired in October after she was issued a letter of probable cause for termination by Battle Ground Public Schools.
BGEA President Mary Mendoza-Haensel said the incident highlights the importance of fair procedures and educator rights.
“We are relieved that Amanda will be returning to her students. This outcome shows why due process matters — not just for educators, but for the stability and trust our students and families rely on,” Mendoza-Haensel said in a statement.
After her firing, other students had come to Gonzales’ defense, saying she creates a supportive classroom environment, BGEA said.
“As educators, we are committed to creating classrooms where students feel safe, respected, and encouraged to think critically,” Gonzales said in a statement. “We need to have professional protections that allow us to do our jobs without fear of premature discipline.”
The union said it is now asking Battle Ground Public Schools to “...
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