Story perspectives

SPPS Launches Temporary Virtual Learning Amid Safety Concerns

1/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) will offer a temporary virtual learning option starting January 22 due to safety concerns from increased federal immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities.
The decision follows a significant drop in attendance tied to the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer, which disproportionately affected Spanish-speaking students.
Minneapolis Public Schools has implemented a similar online option that ends February 12.

History

Historical Context

The Trump administration's immigration policies, initiated in 2017, marked a significant shift from previous practices, intensifying enforcement and leading to a 200% increase in ICE arrests. This escalation, including the controversial Executive Order 13768, disproportionately affected immigrant communities, particularly Spanish-speaking students, as seen in the response of Saint Paul Public Schools to safety concerns following incidents like the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good.

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Story summary

Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) will offer a temporary virtual learning option starting January 22 due to safety concerns from increased federal immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities.
The decision follows a significant drop in attendance tied to the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer, which disproportionately affected Spanish-speaking students.
Minneapolis Public Schools has implemented a similar online option that ends February 12.

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