By In another example of how public schools have gone insane, a Spanish teacher in Republican-leaning upstate New York has been placed on paid administrative leave because she helped conservative students for a student group.
Jennifer Fasulo, a Spanish instructor in the Baldwinsville Central School District, was removed from the classroom on January 30, according to The New York Post. Supporters say the action came shortly after she agreed to advise students seeking to establish a chapter of Club America, the high school affiliate of Turning Point USA, founded by Charlie Kirk.
The district confirmed the leave but has offered limited public explanation. In statements to parents and media, officials said that “a staff member has been placed on paid administrative leave while a matter is under review.” The district added that it is “following established administrative and legal procedures” and declined to comment further on the specifics of the case.
Fasulo, who also serves as an adviser for Christian-based student organizations, has drawn strong backing from students who describe her as a dedicated teacher and mentor. A petition calling for her reinstatement has garnered more than 2,100 signatures. The petition characterizes her as an outstanding educator and argues she should not face professional consequences for her personal beliefs or political views. It further alleges discrimination on spiritual and political grounds and calls for her immediate return to the classroom.
The controversy has unfolded in Baldwinsville, a suburb of Syracuse, where the high school has in recent years displayed pride flags and other symbols reflecting broader cultural debates. Some supporters of the proposed conservative club contrast those displays with what they describe as resistance to the formation of a right-leaning student organization. Critics of the district’s decision argue that the leave constitutes viewpoint discrimination.
Others in the community have raised concerns about Turning Point USA and its high school initiative, with some equating the organization to groups they believe promote divisive or harmful rhetoric. The dispute has quickly expanded beyond one personnel decision, touching on questions about ideological balance in public education and the rights of students to organize around political causes.
Students have spoken at school board meetings in Fasulo’s defense, maintaining that she treats all students fairly regardless of background or belief. They argue that her willingness to advise a conservative club reflects support for student engagement rather than partisan activism.
As of February 21, 2026, the Baldwinsville Central School District has not released additional details about the review process or indicated when a resolution might be reached. The case continues to draw attention as communities nationwide wrestle with how public schools navigate political expression in an increasingly polarized environment.
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