Cienega Teachers' 'Problem Solved' Shirts Spark Backlash

Math teachers at Cienega High School in the Vail School District posed for Halloween photos wearing red‑stained T‑shirts reading 'Problem Solved,' prompting accusations—amplified by Turning Point USA and social media—that the shirts mocked the recent murder of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. The district and Superintendent John Carruth said the shirts were part of a math‑themed costume that had been worn the previous year, apologized for the upset, and said the teachers are sorry. Turning Point USA spokesman Andrew Kolvet and some lawmakers condemned the images and demanded accountability. The controversy drew national attention, led to images and some posts being deleted, and resulted in death threats against staff and extra security at the campus. The district has retired the shirts and is weighing changes to its costume policy as it considers possible disciplinary steps.