Jennifer Fasulo, a Spanish teacher at Charles W. Baker High School, was placed on paid administrative leave in late January, shortly after agreeing to serve as faculty adviser for a new Club America chapter, according to reporting by the New York Post.

Club America is the high school arm of Turning Point USA, the conservative youth organization founded by Charlie Kirk. Students seeking official recognition for a club are required to secure a faculty adviser.

In a February 10 letter to parents and staff, the Baldwinsville Central School District confirmed that a staff member had been placed on paid leave “while a matter is under review,” adding that it was following established administrative and legal procedures. The district declined to provide further details, citing personnel confidentiality, and emphasized its commitment to a “safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment.”

Students organized a petition supporting Fasulo, arguing she is “facing discrimination for her spiritual and political beliefs” and calling for her reinstatement. The petition had gathered more than 2,300 signatures as of Sunday.

At a February 9 school board meeting, Club America President Jerry Dygert said Fasulo was being targeted for her political beliefs rather than her job performance. “Our club exists to promote political understanding through civil discourse,” he said, adding that removing their adviser jeopardizes that mission. Other students described her as a mentor and expressed confusion about her absence from the classroom.

Some parents reportedly opposed the club’s presence, with critics characterizing Turning Point USA in harsh terms and comparing the organization to extremist groups. Supporters have pushed back, arguing the club represents lawful political engagement protected under equal access principles.

Republican state Senate candidate Caleb Slater said the situation could have a chilling effect on conservative students seeking to organize. “These are students who asked for this organization to be founded, not parents or teachers,” he said.

The district has not announced whether Fasulo will return to her position as the review continues.