Hundreds of students suspended, schools under close watch over anti-ICE walkouts
The Hill
by Lexi Lonas CochranFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hundreds of K-12 students across the U.S. have faced disciplinary actions, including suspensions or detentions, after participating in anti-ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) walkouts. These demonstrations, often referred to as "ICE out" protests, gained momentum following the tragic shooting deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal immigration officers in Minneapolis last month. The walkouts have since spread rapidly across schools, with students using their platforms to voice concerns over ICE's enforcement tactics and their impact on immigrant communities.
The surge in anti-ICE activism among students reflects a growing frustration with the agency's actions and the broader debate surrounding U.S. immigration policies. These protests are not isolated incidents but part of a larger movement challenging the role of ICE in communities. Students have organized these walkouts to draw attention to what they see as injustices committed by ICE, including deportations, detentions, and the use of lethal force.
In response, schools and districts have varied in their reactions. Some have supported students' right to express themselves while others, citing school policies on attendance and behavior, have imposed disciplinary measures. Legal experts warn that these actions could set a precedent for how schools handle political protests, potentially chilling free expression in educational settings. Advocacy groups argue that suspending students for exercising their First Amendment rights raises serious concerns about the erosion of democratic values.
The issue has sparked intense debate over the role of ICE and the treatment of immigrants in America. For many, these walkouts represent a broader critique of government policies and a call for systemic change. The protests also highlight the growing political awareness among young people and their desire to engage in activism on issues they see as deeply personal and urgent.
This movement matters because it underscores the intersection of education,
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026