Local dispute arises over proposal to commemorate Wheeling High School alumnus Charlie Kirk
In a recent turn of events, a proposal to honour alumnus Charlie Kirk at his alma mater, Wheeling High School, has sparked a heated debate within the community. Charlie Kirk, a Wheeling High School alum, made national headlines after he was tragically killed in a shooting on a college campus in Utah. Known for his association with the conservative political organization, Turning Point USA, Kirk's influence extended beyond the confines of his alma mater. However, the proposal to honour Kirk was not on the official agenda for the High School District 214 meeting. Superintendent Scott Rowe shared a statement with ABC7 regarding the petitions and memorial for Kirk, but did not comment on the proposal itself. Two opposing petitions on Change.org have garnered thousands of signatures each, expressing both support and opposition to the proposal. One petition calls for school leaders to honour Kirk with plaques, signage, district-wide chapters for his organization, Turning Point USA, and a day of honour in Kirk's name. An opposing appeal was launched, expressing condolences to Kirk's family while calling his legacy 'divisive.' Fay Costa, an opponent of a Kirk memorial, stated that Kirk's messages were regressive, sexist, and harmful. She expressed concern that her daughter's education is not up for debate. On the other hand, Steve Blye, a supporter of Charlie Kirk, stated that Kirk had a profound impact on the country's direction. The district has existing policies that detail how students can start new non-school sponsored co-curricular activities. The district will not hold a district-wide memorial for Kirk as it would disrupt the learning environment. Instead, the district encourages mourning and remembering Kirk at public services and vigils organized throughout the community. The school board does not plan to bring either cause regarding Kirk's memorial up, at least for now. The district is in the process of assessing the Distinguished Alumni awards for Kirk and is updating its processes for these awards to ensure they align with the district's values and policies. President Donald Trump plans to award Charlie Kirk a Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously, a decision that has further fuelled the debate surrounding Kirk's legacy. As the situation unfolds, the community remains divided, reflecting the broader political and social divisions in American society.
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