Full Breakdown
Los Angeles Teachers Patrol Neighborhoods for ICE Activity
8/17/2026, 9:48:12 PM
Teachers Conduct “ICE Patrols” Near Schools
Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) teachers have organized ride-along patrols in neighborhoods surrounding schools to watch for signs of federal immigration enforcement. Participants, including teacher Lupe Carrasco Cardona, travel through residential streets before classes begin, noting indicators such as tinted windows or double-parked vehicles that they associate with ICE activity. When a potential ICE presence is observed, the group photographs license plates and alerts families and community members. The effort is organized through a local anti-enforcement group called Unión del Barrio and is not sanctioned by LAUSD.
District Support for Immigrant Families
LAUSD has emphasized a policy of non-disclosure of students’ immigration status except when required by law and has expanded resources for families concerned about immigration enforcement. The district’s “We Are One” campaign offers 24/7 legal referrals, mental-health services, a multilingual Family Preparedness Packet, transportation assistance, and alternative learning options through its Virtual Academy. “We do not ask about or share a student's immigration status unless required by law, and we remain committed to maintaining safe zones around our schools,” — the spokesperson
Official Responses
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rejected the portrayal of ICE activity in schools as a “false narrative,” asserting that ICE agents are not conducting arrests on school grounds except in cases involving dangerous or violent criminal fugitives.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's been really beautiful to witness teachers devoting their own personal time to just watching the neighborhood and making sure that it's safe,” — United Teachers Los Angeles, Chapter Chair Jon Paul Arciniega “It's been really beautiful to witness teachers devoting their own personal time to just watching the neighborhood and making sure that it's safe,” — United Teachers Los Angeles
- “We do not ask about or share a student's immigration status unless required by law, and we remain committed to maintaining safe zones around our schools,” — LAUSD spokesperson “We do not ask about or share a student's immigration status unless required by law, and we remain committed to maintaining safe zones around our schools,” — the spokesperson
