Turning Point chapter at Stephen Decatur High School is made official

WORCESTER COUNTY, Md. – A Turning Point USA chapter is being officially recognized by Worcester County Public Schools.

Rev. James Jones of the New Macedonia Church of Pocomoke says the move is bad. “We can’t stand to let this be introduced in such a fine county as Worcester County.”

Club America is the new chapter name. It took a while to become official because of the WCPS guidelines and finding an adult advisor for the group.

During the Board of Education meeting, intense debate over whether it’s wanted in the community. Parents and Community for Justice in Education’s Dr. William Johnson calls it divisive. “There are 3 high schools, but they conveniently put it at Stephen Decatur High School, because Decatur lacks diversity.”

On the other side of the aisle is Colin McEvers. He runs the Turning Point USA chapter at Salisbury University. He tells WMDT, the student group is making a statement.

“They are courageous, the fact that they stood up, and were bold in deciding to start this up, despite the fact that adults called them fascists and nazis.”

District 1 County Commissioner Caryn Abbott agrees. She said it offers people an outlet for open discussion. “Any club that teaches our young people how to be young adults, productive citizens, and have civil debate is a good thing.”

Dr. Johnson, said due to the lack of diversity in the high school, there could be more problems.  “I think Stephen Decatur High School has a similar demographic, and advocating for such a hate group, I’m concerned for what may happen.”

Commissioner Abbott remains steadfast in making sure Worcester County students can be free of expression. She calls the hate-speech from adults very dissapointing.

“99% of what is being said is coming from adults. It’s not coming from their peers, and that tells you a lot right there.”