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.

At a school board meeting on 12 February, a parent spoke up. According toFOX 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.

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 has been growing its presence in schools and colleges for years. Its events often focus on debate and civic engagement. Afterthe killing of founder Charlie Kirkin 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.

Source: International Business Times UK