Charlie Kirk talked with young people at universities for a reason – he wanted American education to return to traditional values

(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Daniel Ruggles , Brandeis University

(THE CONVERSATION) Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated on Sept. 10, 2025 , at the start of a college campus tour that centered on Kirk discussing politics – and education – with students.

A large part of Kirk’s political activism centered on what education should look like. Amy Lieberman, The Conversation’s education editor, spoke with Daniel Ruggles , a scholar of conservative youth activism, to better understand the beliefs about education that influenced Kirk and the connection he tried to make with young people.

What is most important to understand about Charlie Kirk’s views on education?

Charlie Kirk’s educa