Seattle Schools Sheltered-in-Place Amid Reported ICE Activity
Several Seattle public schools initiated shelter-in-place protocols following unconfirmed reports of ICE activity in the South End. The schools involved included Mercer International Middle School, Cleveland STEM High School, Maple Elementary School, Dearborn Park International Elementary School, Beacon Hill International Elementary School, and Aki Kurose Middle School.
Details of the Shelter-in-Place Orders
Seattle Public Schools Chief of Staff Bev Redmond confirmed that the decision to shelter-in-place was made out of caution. It is crucial to note that sheltering-in-place differs from a lockdown. While exterior doors are secured, students have the freedom to move between classrooms.
Some schools lifted their shelter-in-place status, while others continued until the end of the school day. Redmond stated that district officials are working to verify additional information regarding the incidents. Safety and Security staff remained present at schools and reported no confirmed ICE activity.
Community Reactions
- School Board Director Joe Mizrahi emphasized the urgency of developing clearer protocols for potential ICE threats.
- Port Commissioner Toshiko Hasegawa expressed her concern over the climate of fear affecting children and families.
- State Senator Rebecca Saldaña noted the emotional toll of the situation and praised the district’s swift actions.
- City Councilmember Eddie Lin described ICE’s activities as detrimental to the values of safety and democracy in schools.
Hasegawa, whose children attend school in the area, suggested that childcare centers work together with Seattle Public Schools to alert families during emergencies. She also cautioned against the spread of misinformation. The need for discretion was echoed by Saldaña, who highlighted concerns over the emotional impact of possible ICE intimidation tactics on students.
Continued Vigilance and Support
As the situation developed, Seattle Public Schools remained vigilant, ensuring the safety of students while addressing community concerns. Families and educators alike are digesting the experience, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to student safety in the face of such challenges.
By keeping children’s and educators’ safety as a priority, the district aims to navigate these complex situations thoughtfully and effectively. The incidents serve as a reminder of the ongoing conversation surrounding safety, immigration policies, and the educational environment in Seattle.
