Students Form Turning Point USA Chapter at Barrington High School
At Barrington High School in Barrington, Rhode Island, students initiated a Turning Point USA chapter following a controversy involving a teacher. This teacher allegedly belittled Charlie Kirk, the founder of the organization, after his assassination.
Benjamin Philo, a social studies teacher at the school, has reportedly been placed on administrative leave due to a video he shared on social media. In this video, he ridiculed Kirk’s assassination, labeling him as “trash.”
In the video, Philo expressed a lack of “sympathy for Charlie Kirk,” while making unfounded allegations that Kirk “hates” the “LGBTQ community, women’s rights, and democracy.” He also made a peculiar assertion about Kirk thinking himself admirable for debating college students, implying that he believed he was showcasing his toughness.
Philo dismissed Kirk’s persona, saying, “What trash,” and added, with an unsettling cheer, “This is what happens,” suggesting he views the assassination of conservative figures on campuses as somewhat expected. He went on to sarcastically question if Kirk’s gun would be taken away, finishing with a seemingly jovial, “Goodbye, Charlie.”
In response to these comments, students at Barrington High School decided to establish their own TPUSA chapter. Brayden Ryan, the Vice President of the new chapter, remarked that Philo’s remarks contributed greatly to their decision to form the organization.
Ryan noted, “He was talking on TikTok about how he has no remorse and how he’s a hateful person.” He emphasized the need to create a space for conservative students to express their values, including religious and political beliefs.
Sarah Dell, a spokesperson for the Barrington School District, stated that students are encouraged to create clubs reflecting their interests. She explained that there is a specific process for forming new student organizations and confirmed that the relevant information has been shared with those interested in starting a Turning Point USA chapter.
Dell also mentioned that there are several other new student clubs currently undergoing the same approval process.
