School Walkout

Protest in Minneapolis

By: Josiah Stromberg

“ Fear and hate get ICE out of state!” This is what was heard all over the country one  on the afternoon of 1/28/2026 when thousands of high school students suddenly walked out of school to protest against ICE ( Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

About ICE

ICE is a government funded program that started right after the 9/11 attack. Its purpose is to make sure that illegal aliens aren't getting into the USA without permission. In the past year, its actions against immigrants are somewhat questionable. Recently they detained a 5 year old boy. They also have really inhumane detainment centers which lead to 52 largely preventable deaths. 

Protest

The nationwide protests caused an uproar with many people who believe that ICE should be eradicated. Students all over the USA took it into their own hands to protest against ICE. One notable protest was by David Douglas Parkrose, at McDaniel’s High Schools of Portland. "We respect the First Amendment rights of students and also must ensure the safe operation of our schools," says Noblesville school district spokesperson Marnie Cooks.

Some teachers were concerned about the way students chose to walk out during school hours. “Whether I agree with you or not, if you stand up for what you think is right, I respect that but it should not be done like this.” says Kurt Saylor, security guard at Azalea Country School. Rumors were spread that kids were getting severely punished with multi day detentions and being prohibited from walking in their own graduation.  After hearing these reports, Indystar sent out some reporters to check these claims. The reports showed that almost all the reports were false. In fact most students rarely get more than a detention.

Work Cited

“ICE walkouts: How schools punished Indianapolis-area students.” IndyStar, 19 February 2026, https://www.indystar.com/story/news/education/2026/02/19/ice-walkouts-how-indianapolis-schools-punished-student-protests/88588937007/. 

https://www.indystar.com/story/news/education/2026/02/19/ice-walkouts-how-indianapolis-schools-punished-student-protests/88588937007/

Accessed 23 February 2026.