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Fridley Schools Face $500K Loss Amid ICE Fears

2/12/2026

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Fridley Schools Struggle

Fridley Public Schools faces a nearly $500,000 loss from enrollment declines tied to ICE enforcement fears, with both districts expressing concern about education and nutrition funding amid the immigration crackdown.
Superintendent Brenda Lewis of Fridley Public Schools reports that about 400 students are enrolled in virtual learning.
Attendance declines on days when ICE activity is reported.
About 100 students may soon exceed the 15-day absence policy, risking their enrollment status.

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Minnesota Schools Sue

Two Minnesota school districts and the state's teachers' union filed a lawsuit seeking a permanent injunction to keep ICE agents at least 1,000 feet from schools.
They say arrests at bus stops and the detention of teachers create fear among students and educators, increasing absenteeism, especially among immigrant students.
Acting Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem is named as a defendant, and no trial date has been set.

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Fridley Schools Struggle

Fridley Public Schools faces a nearly $500,000 loss from enrollment declines tied to ICE enforcement fears, with both districts expressing concern about education and nutrition funding amid the immigration crackdown.
Superintendent Brenda Lewis of Fridley Public Schools reports that about 400 students are enrolled in virtual learning.
Attendance declines on days when ICE activity is reported.
About 100 students may soon exceed the 15-day absence policy, risking their enrollment status.

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