Overview
- Vail School District apologized for confusion and said Cienega High math teachers wore the shirts as a math-themed Halloween costume, not a reference to Kirk.
- The district shared an image dated Oct. 31, 2024 showing the same shirts, and the superintendent said the outfits were purchased online and reused this year.
- Teachers received online threats and the high school reported increased law enforcement presence following the viral post, according to school communications.
- Turning Point USA spokesman Andrew Kolvet amplified the photo and later acknowledged the district’s timeline after reviewing evidence of prior-year use.
- Posts by high-profile Republicans, including Sen. Mike Lee and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, boosted the initial accusation as some Arizona politicians demanded firings, while one state lawmaker publicly pressed the district to produce last year's photo.