Full Breakdown
Minnesota School Districts and Teachers' Union Sue to Evict ICE from Schools
2/12/2026, 9:46:12 AM
Core Event: Legal Action Against ICE's Presence in Schools
In early February 2026, two Minnesota school districts—Fridley and Duluth—along with the state's teachers' union, Education Minnesota (EdMn), filed a lawsuit against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The lawsuit seeks to prohibit ICE agents from conducting enforcement actions within 1,000 feet of schools, school bus stops, and daycare centers. This legal action arises from a series of incidents where ICE has detained individuals near educational institutions, leading to increased fear and absenteeism among students from immigrant communities.
Background & Context: Impact of ICE Operations
The lawsuit highlights a troubling trend in Minnesota, where ICE's operations have reportedly led to significant disruptions in schools. For instance, on January 12, ICE agents arrested a special education paraprofessional and detained a parent at a school bus stop in Inver Grove Heights and Brooklyn Center, respectively. These actions have contributed to heightened anxiety among students and families, particularly those from Latino and immigrant backgrounds. Duluth's school district reported a monthly expenditure increase of $573,000 on security measures due to these concerns.
Key Figures & Groups: Stakeholders in the Legal Battle
The lawsuit names Kristi Noem, the acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, along with ICE and Border Patrol officials as defendants. Education Minnesota, representing teachers across the state, argues that the presence of ICE agents in and around schools undermines the educational environment and exacerbates emotional distress among students and educators alike.
Why It Matters: Broader Implications for Education and Community Safety
The ongoing situation has led to a significant rise in absenteeism, particularly among students receiving English learner services, with January absenteeism reported to be 116% higher than in December. Fridley Superintendent Brenda Lewis noted that around 20% of the student body is currently enrolled in virtual learning, with many students absent due to fears of ICE enforcement. This trend poses a financial threat to school districts, as enrollment numbers directly impact state funding. For example, Fridley Public Schools could lose nearly $500,000 if 100 students reach the 15-day consecutive absence threshold.
Official Statements & Responses: Perspectives from Educators and Officials
Superintendent John Magas of Duluth emphasized the importance of safety for students, stating, “We know students can’t learn unless they feel safe.” The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) acknowledged the challenges faced by districts but reiterated that statutory requirements regarding student enrollment for funding purposes remain unchanged. MDE's statement highlighted the need for all students, regardless of immigration status, to have access to education.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns Over ICE's Policies
Critics of ICE's actions argue that the agency's presence in schools creates an environment of fear that disrupts learning. The lawsuit contends that ICE's recent policy changes, which allow agents to operate with greater discretion in sensitive locations, are arbitrary and violate federal law. The union's lawsuit reflects a growing national resistance to ICE's enforcement tactics, which many view as harmful to community safety and educational integrity.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps: Discrepancies in Impact Assessment
While the lawsuit and various school officials report significant increases in absenteeism and emotional distress among students, some sources have not provided specific data on the overall impact of ICE's operations across all Minnesota schools. The extent of the financial implications for each district remains unclear, as varying enrollment policies and local responses complicate the situation.
Verbatim Quotes: Direct Voices from the Ground
- “Parents, children, and teachers, regardless of immigration status, reasonably fear going to school.” — Education Minnesota
- “Activity at or near schools harms the teacher-members of EdMN.” — Education Minnesota
- “Right now, there is a great sense of lack of safety, especially among our historically underserved students.” — John Magas, Duluth Superintendent
- “It is fiscally decimating to districts because this is happening to other districts as well.” — Brenda Lewis, Fridley Superintendent
This lawsuit represents a critical moment in the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and its impact on educational environments, highlighting the urgent need for policies that prioritize student safety and well-being.
