Upstate New York teacher placed on leave after helping students form TPUSA-linked club

A Spanish teacher at Charles W. Baker High School in Baldwinsville, New York, has been placed on paid administrative leave amid a growing local dispute over her involvement with a new student political group.

The teacher, Jennifer Fasulo, agreed earlier this year to advise students who were seeking to launch a chapter of Club America, the high school affiliate of the conservative organization Turning Point USA, founded by the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk who was assassinated on a college campus in Utah. 

Shortly after that decision, school officials put her on leave on January 30, according to district communications.

In a letter sent to families on February 10, Baldwinsville Central School District confirmed a staff member had been placed on leave while “a matter is under review,” but did not offer specific details due to personnel privacy rules. The district emphasized its commitment to safety, inclusivity and respect for all in its community.

Dozens of students launched an online petition backing Fasulo, arguing she’s being unfairly targeted for her political and spiritual views. One student quoted in local reports described her as an influential mentor whose absence has left classmates puzzled and disappointed.