300 high school students who ditched class for anti-ICE walkout suspended
More than 300 students at Woodbridge High School in Virginia were suspended last week after walking out of class and leaving campus during a student-organized protest against federal immigration enforcement, according to reports.
Principal Dr. Heather Abney informed parents in a letter obtained by 7 News that 303 students received three-day suspensions for leaving class last Friday to “express their views” on immigration policy.
The demonstration, which was not supported by Prince William County Public Schools, extended beyond the school grounds, spilling into nearby streets. Local police were called to manage traffic and supervise the hundreds of students involved. In her letter, Abney acknowledged that walkouts are a way for students to express opinions on issues “important to them,” but emphasized that leaving campus without permission violates district rules.
Some students reportedly returned home after the protest, others went to a nearby shopping center, and a few came back to campus, where minor disturbances occurred. “We appreciate your partnership as we continue to prioritize student safety while maintaining clear expectations for appropriate conduct during the school day,” Abney wrote, according to Fox News Digital.
Despite the suspensions, students across the district are planning another walkout this Friday, promoted on a student-run Instagram page advocating to “abolish” US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
A post from the account, pwcs_iceout, assured participants that school administrators were aware of the demonstration and suggested joining would not lead to disciplinary action. “Welcome to Prince William County Schools ICE OUT,” the post read. “It’s time to take a stand. As the walkout happening on Friday, February 20th will be countywide, it’s important to understand every campus has slightly different layouts and procedures. Please stay alert for detailed instructions from us and your local student organizers regarding specific meetup spots.”
The page also emphasized that the protest was not “approved or endorsed” by the school district, encouraged students to bring signs and remain peaceful, and reminded them to stay on school grounds.
About Post Author
