There are differences between public and private sector employment. My comment that you quote was general and not specific to this particular case. As for public teachers, there is a clear distinction between writing op-eds on your own time and on-the-job conduct. Any comments, displays, or demonstrations on school property are generally considered part of on-the-job conduct. There is also the issue of public pressure. Any teacher unlucky enough to incite the ire of voters is likely to find themselves unemployed. Given enough public pressure, a school board and administration will find a way to rid themselves of a problem teacher. It might not be easy, or pretty, but given enough pressure a way will be found. Tom