COLUMBIA, Ill. – Columbia Unit School District #4 accepted the resignation of English teacher Mary Adams Thursday night.
Supporters of the Columbia High educator spoke during the district’s regular September board of education meeting, expressing frustration over what led to her departure.
Adams’ supporters say she shared a Charlie Kirk quote about his dislike of the word empathy. They say the social media post led to her suspension, online threats and ultimately her resignation.
“I am shocked, saddened and embarrassed that members of our community have treated one of our best and most highly qualified teachers this way,” said Emily Velnosky, a district parent.
Adams’ supporters say the post was shared before news reports announced Kirk had died.
Billboard sparks hope in mother’s disappearance
“What is wrong with a teacher quoting Charles Kirk using some of his own words?” Columbia resident Patrick Kelly asked.
Supporters say Adams deleted the post.
“She was so qualified and so educated and she taught me so much,” said a tearful Kaelyn O’Brien, a former student.
Others praised Adams for her work teaching AP courses, which help prepare high school students for college.
“What happened to Mary Adams is wrong, and our students are paying a very high price,” Velnosky said.
One of the 12 public speakers disagreed with Adams supporters. Kellie Graves said she wanted to learn more about what happened before drawing a conclusion.
“It would depend on exactly what was said,” Graves said. “She’s influenced a lot of our kids and hopefully in the right way.”
Superintendent Christopher Grode said the district does not publicly discuss personnel or student issues. He said the void can lead to opinion and conjecture.
Grode added that he believes the district effectively separates politics from the classroom.
You can view Thursday’s Board of Education meeting on the district’s YouTube channel here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
