TPEDF Supports GCISD Teacher Facing Defamation After Misleading Public Claims
Texas Public Education Defense Fund (TPEDF)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 22, 2025
Contact: [email protected]
Website: www.tpedf.org
TPEDF Supports GCISD Teacher Facing Defamation After Misleading Public Claims
Colleyville, TX — The Texas Public Education Defense Fund (TPEDF) supports Lisa Seligmann-Brisendine, a Grapevine-Colleyville ISD teacher placed on administrative leave following serious accusations made by a community member. These accusations were further promulgated by City of Keller Mayor Armin Mizani, a Republican candidate for Texas House District 98, in a public social media post, and reported in The Dallas Express.
The reports allege that Ms. Seligmann-Brisendine posted a Facebook meme celebrating the murder of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. According to Ms. Seligmann-Brisendine, the meme was posted hours before Kirk’s death was reported and was not connected to his passing. TPEDF is monitoring the situation closely, and we will share further information once independent media records verify this timeline.
“This teacher has been thrust into the center of a public firestorm based on allegations that, if proven inaccurate, are illegal and deeply damaging,” said Andrew D. Sternke, Executive Director of TPEDF. “Our role is to ensure that educators are not silenced or destroyed by misinformation and political targeting.”
Our Position
1. Due Process Matters: Educators accused in the public square deserve a fair chance to verify the facts before reputational harm is cemented.
2. Educator Rights: Like all citizens, teachers are entitled to exercise personal political speech without fear of defamation or retaliation.
3. Accountability: If independent verification confirms Ms. Seligmann-Brisendine’s account, those who spread false claims must be held legally and publicly accountable.
Ms. Seligmann-Brisendine has retained legal counsel to pursue remedies against those responsible for publishing and promoting damaging falsehoods. TPEDF will continue to provide advocacy support and use this case to highlight the broader issue of misinformation and the political weaponization of educators.
“Educators deserve respect, not political smears,” Sternke added. “This case isn’t just about one individual; it’s about ensuring truth, fairness, and accountability for all Texas teachers.”
About TPEDF
The Texas Public Education Defense Fund is a nonpartisan 501(c)(4) legal advocacy organization committed to defending public education, advancing equity, and holding public officials accountable under the law.
To learn more, visit www.tpedf.org