A Wisconsin school, Lake Country Classical Academy (LCCA), is set to collaborate with Turning Point USA (TPUSA) after initially declining to allow a student chapter to form. Principal Margaret Hagedorn shared that they will work together on new initiatives.
This decision came after pushback from parents, including Melissa Smiley, whose daughter wanted to start the chapter. The rejection met with sharp criticism, notably from former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, who is also involved with TPUSA.
Katie Smiley, a 17-year-old junior, felt motivated to join the nationwide trend of TPUSA chapters following the passing of Charlie Kirk. In response to the school’s decision, her mother expressed her displeasure in a letter to the board.
In a letter addressing the concerns, Hagedorn clarified that the rejection was not due to political bias, stressing that they adhere to the Hillsdale model that restricts political group affiliations. Hagedorn emphasized their commitment to fostering civic engagement without compromising the school’s policies.
Up until now, LCCA has not permitted political clubs linked to outside organizations, as detailed in the Hillsdale Guidance and Family Handbook. This policy affects how they might embrace TPUSA’s presence within the school’s framework. Hagedorn noted that further review of these policies was necessary for clarity.
Despite the earlier rejection, Hagedorn expressed optimism about collaborating with TPUSA to reach shared objectives. After initial discussions about TPUSA’s role at LCCA, the school plans to proceed with creating a civic club that aligns with its guidelines.
Walker expressed support for this new direction, commending the school for its decision to engage with conservative student representation on campus. However, Melissa Smiley voiced concerns that the civic club’s establishment might confuse some parents about the school’s intentions, suggesting ongoing leadership issues at the institution.
Bret Galaszewski, a TPUSA leader, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the transformative vision of establishing a chapter in every school, a goal close to Kirk’s heart. Hagedorn confirmed plans to meet with Katie and interested students to discuss the next steps in this collaboration.
Looking ahead, Hagedorn underscored the value of civic engagement, noting widespread positive feedback about the efforts to form a partnership with TPUSA. Nick Cocca from TPUSA praised this initiative and expressed enthusiasm about the joint project, especially following the significant surge in interest for new chapters since Kirk’s death.
In summary, Katie’s ambition to establish a TPUSA chapter—and the school’s newfound partnership with TPUSA—underscores the growing movement within the organization in response to Kirk’s legacy. Katie has long been engaged with TPUSA initiatives, inspired to continue Charlie’s work.
