Why It Matters
The incident raises questions about federal tax compliance for nonprofit charter schools and the boundaries of political activity on educational campuses in Nevada.
What Happened
A parent filed a complaint with the State Public Charter School Authority alleging that State Sen. Carrie Buck and U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson violated federal tax regulations by campaigning at Pinecrest Academy Sloan Canyon in August. The event took place at the 501(c)(3) nonprofit charter school, which is prohibited from engaging in partisan political activity under IRS rules.
Buck, a Republican candidate challenging Democrat Rep. Dina Titus in Nevada’s Congressional District 1, previously served as principal and executive director of the school. A National Republican Congressional Committee camera crew accompanied the pair during the visit, where Johnson discussed low taxes, small government, and President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill.”
Pinecrest officials deny that the visit constituted campaigning. Treasurer Coby Sherlock stated that parents were notified and given the opportunity to opt out. However, a student reported via social media that notification occurred only after the event concluded.
Adelei Kaplan, the parent who filed the initial complaint, subsequently submitted another grievance to the school’s board of directors after the State Public Charter School Authority asked if she had contacted them directly.
By the Numbers
August — Month of the campaign event at the charter school
501(c)(3) — Tax code designation for Pinecrest Academy Sloan Canyon and other state charter schools
Congressional District 1 — The district Buck is challenging Titus in
Three-decade — Length of Buck’s career in Nevada education cited in media availability
Zoom Out
Charter schools in Clark County are prohibited from campaigning except for organized events representing all candidates. The controversy highlights tensions between political outreach and nonprofit compliance requirements.
Attorney Bradley Schrager stated he believes the IRS will not take action despite the violation. “The parents should have the right to expect that if they’re sending their child to school or church, you shouldn’t have somebody telling you how to vote,” Schrager said.
Rep. Dina Titus alleged Buck exploited schoolchildren for political gain and should be held accountable. The visit included high school seniors who are or will soon be of voting age.
What’s Next
Kaplan’s complaint with the school’s board of directors remains pending. Whether the State Public Charter School Authority or the IRS will pursue formal action against Pinecrest Academy Sloan Canyon has not been determined.