TPUSA Event at a Maryland High School Raised 'Serious Concerns' That Led to Parents Alerting CPS — What Happened?

A high school event in Maryland organised by Turning Point USA (TPUSA) has raised significant concern among parents and locals.

The event, held at a local school, was meant to encourage students to talk about politics and civic life. But some parents say it went too far. One even called Child Protective Services (CPS) because they worried about supervision and the lack of parental involvement.

The student group behind it, Calvert County Club America (CCCA), said the goal was debate and engagement. Supporters said it was a great chance for students to learn.

Critics, however, said the event wasn't properly monitored and could feel exclusionary. This is after it was found that parents weren't allowed in.

Safety Concerns

At a school board meeting on 12 February, a parent spoke up. According to FOX News, she said the programme raised 'serious concerns related to student safety, parental rights and governance oversight'. She argued that keeping parents out made it hard to know if proper safety rules were being followed.

She said students are young and vulnerable. Without adults watching closely, she worried they could get messages or guidance they weren't ready for. She also reminded the board that all members are mandated reporters under state law. A formal report had been made to CPS to determine whether the event complied with child welfare rules.

Students Speak Up

The CCCA president, a 17-year-old, defended the event. He said only students with parental permission could attend. Adults who weren't volunteering or connected to the group weren't allowed.

He pushed back against rumours online. 'We've been accused of lots of things,' he said. 'People said some man with a criminal record ran our group. I'm the president. I'm 17. I'm a minor. I can't groom children, and I don't have any felony charges.'

He also pointed out that while CCCA is linked to TPUSA, it's an independent 501(c)(3) group. It isn't officially part of the school system, which legally separates it from school oversight.

TPUSA's Campus Moves

TPUSA has been growing its presence in schools and colleges for years. Its events often focus on debate and civic engagement. After the killing of founder Charlie Kirk in September at Utah Valley University, the group carried on with its campus work. Charlie's widow, Erika, said they are continuing the events, including their signature 'Prove Me Wrong' debates.

Critics say TPUSA events need more transparency, especially with minors involved. Student-led groups are great in theory, but schools and parents must keep a close eye on them. The Maryland event shows how tricky it can be to balance civic engagement with student safety.

What This Means for Parents

The incident is a wake-up call for parents. Even well-meaning programmes can make people uneasy if supervision isn't clear. Schools need to ensure that outside groups follow the rules and work with guardians.

For students, the events can still be useful. Debate and civic learning are important. But adults need to be there to guide them. Otherwise, concern and stress can outweigh any benefit.

The CPS report shows how seriously families take their responsibilities. Schools, parents, and student groups need to work together to keep learning spaces safe.

This isn't likely to be the last time an outside group causes a stir. Political clubs are increasingly entering schools. The questions keep coming—how much oversight is enough? How can parents stay informed?

For now, locals want more transparency and safety measures. Civic engagement is important, but it can't come at the cost of kids' safety. Schools, parents, and student groups need to be on the same page to protect kids while still giving them a chance to learn and debate.

Originally published on IBTimes UK