Kimball Board of Education Secretary Tom O'Brien announced in a letter to the editor of the Western Nebraska Observer that he is resigning his post.

Calls for O'Brien's resignation began a week ago after he posted a comment on Facebook questioning why flags would be flown at half staff following the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

"He preached hate, and he died by hate," O'Brien said in the comment.

"Last week, Charlie Kirk was tragically murdered. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his alleged assassin. It has been argued that certain individuals in media and academia have contributed to an environment that fosters more hostility and a permissive attitude towards actual violence.  Regrettably, a member of the Kimball School Board, Tom O’Brien, chose to make inflammatory remarks on social media, aligning himself with those who celebrated this assassination. Numerous residents of Kimball have expressed their dismay over Mr. O’Brien’s comments, which were perceived as being deeply out of touch with the sensibilities of both students and families in the community," Senator Brian Harden, who represents Kimball in the state legislature, told News Channel Nebraska.

In his letter to the editor, O'Brien argues he never celebrated Kirk's death.

"I did NOT gloat or make light of his assassination as many have done. And I did NOT suggest in any way that he got what he deserved. That's not who I am," O'Brien wrote.

"Kimball Public Schools remains committed to focusing on excellent student learning, supporting our outstanding staff, and maintaining our fiscal responsibilities. We thank Tom for his five years of service on our School Board; however, our Board of Education's priorities have not and will not change. We look forward to welcoming a new Board Member to continue this important work," said Travis Cook, President of the Kimball Board of Education.

The Board of Education's next meeting will be October 13th at the KCTS Headquarters building at 223 S. Chestnut St. It begins at 6:30pm and is open to the public.