Saucon Valley board approves 'Club America' after debate over partisan ties
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Summary
The Saucon Valley School Board approved a student club called Club America after students and a presenter described the group's focus on free-market and 'freedom-loving' values; board members pressed for assurances the club remain nonpartisan and follow the district's club application rules.
The Saucon Valley School Board approved a petition to form a student group, Club America, after a presentation described the club as promoting "freedom-loving American values" and supporting limited government and relatively free markets.
The presenter who summarized the student petition said much of the club's presentation came from a national Club America website and that student members would pursue community events and grassroots activities. Several board members questioned whether the club had or might develop partisan affiliations; the presenter and other board members emphasized that school policy requires extracurricular student groups be nonpartisan and not support political candidates.
"Club America will promote freedom loving American values," the presenter said during the application summary. Board members repeatedly asked for clarity that the club would adhere to the district's nonpartisan rules for officially recognized student organizations.
One board member noted the application process limits the board's ability to deny a club so long as it meets the district's requirements, and another said the board could revisit recognition if the club deviated from how it was presented to administrators. Several members also referenced outside organizations (including materials described as coming from a national website and a connection raised to Turning Point) and said the governing standard is whether club activities remain nonpartisan in practice.
After discussion and assurances about nonpartisanship and adherence to usual procedures, the board approved the club by voice vote.
The board did not record any formal conditions on the club at the time of approval; members said they could revisit recognition if administrators or the board determined the club had shifted from its petitioned purpose.