A prominent Christian private school in Nashville, Tennessee, is facing backlash over its response to students wanting to honor the late MAGA activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically shot during a debate on September 10 at Utah Valley University. The 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Trump on what would have been his 32nd birthday.
The controversy erupted after Lipscomb Academy students were reportedly prohibited from wearing red ties and suit jackets as a tribute to Kirk. Savannah Chrisley, a reality TV star and conservative activist whose younger sister attends the school, spoke out about the incident on Newsmax, bringing attention to the issue. According to her, the Upper School Head, Jesse Savage, informed around 12-15 boys that wearing red ties violated the school’s dress code, leading to emotional distress among the students who were mourning Kirk.
The Tennessean reported that the school’s dress code allows variations of khakis or pleated skirts with approved Lipscomb shirts, but prohibits buttons and pins, only allowing a Lipscomb “spirit tie” to be worn. Chrisley expressed her dismay over the situation, describing it as “heartbreaking” for the students who were attempting to pay their respects.
In a statement, a school spokesperson clarified that while the students were asked to remove the red ties, they were not punished for doing so and were instead invited to discuss how they could honor Kirk in a way that aligns with school policies. Following the discussions, plans were made for a future chapel that would focus on impactful faith.
Lipscomb Academy later issued an apology on September 25 regarding the handling of the situation after receiving complaints from students and parents. Despite this, protests occurred outside the school shortly after, fueled by Chrisley’s claims that the school’s administration failed to support the students during a time when unity and faith were critical.
Chrisley also criticized the chapel service dedicated to Kirk, noting its brevity of just 23 minutes, and brought attention to concerns about the presence of staff members who have labeled Kirk negatively. In her remarks, she expressed the need for strong leadership within the institution to better support the beliefs of the student body.
The Independent has reached out to Lipscomb Academy for further comments on the matter. Chrisley, known for her role in the reality series “Chrisley Knows Best,” previously succeeded in lobbying for a pardon for her parents who faced tax evasion and fraud charges. This incident illustrates the ongoing tensions in educational environments where differing political beliefs intersect with academic policy.