Seattle Schools Temporarily Shelter-In-Place Amid Unconfirmed ICE Activity
Several Seattle public schools implemented a shelter-in-place order following unconfirmed reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in the South End. Schools affected include 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. Seattle Public Schools Chief of Staff Bev Redmond confirmed these measures were enacted as a precaution.
Details of the Shelter-In-Place Order
The shelter-in-place protocol differs from a lockdown; while exterior doors are secured, students may move freely within classrooms. These decisions were made at the school level, prioritizing the safety of students and staff.
Current Status and School Response
- Some schools have already lifted the shelter-in-place order, while others may continue this protocol until the end of the school day.
- Redmond stated that Seattle Public Schools Safety and Security personnel remained onsite, monitoring the situation without confirming any ICE presence.
- The district is in the process of gathering additional information about the situation.
Community Reactions
Seattle School Board Director Joe Mizrahi remarked on the seriousness of the ICE threat, emphasizing the need for updated protocols. He pointed out that many students regularly practice for various safety threats, but ICE presents unique challenges.
Local Leaders Weigh In
Port Commissioner Toshiko Hasegawa expressed concern over the emotional impact of these situations on families and children. Hasegawa suggested that childcare centers collaborate with Seattle Public Schools to alert families during similar events in the future. She stressed the importance of verifying information before dissemination to avoid unnecessary panic.
State Senator Rebecca Saldaña indicated that her daughter, a Cleveland STEM High School student, participated in protests against ICE’s presence in schools. She criticized the necessity for schools to implement safety protocols out of fear of targeted enforcement actions. Saldaña praised Seattle Public Schools for their quick response to protect students.
Seattle City Councilmember Eddie Lin condemned ICE actions, highlighting the fear they instill in educational settings. He described such activities as contrary to democratic values and called for accountability for those responsible. Lin reiterated the need for schools to be safe and welcoming for all students.
This event continues to highlight the tension surrounding immigration enforcement in public spaces, particularly schools, emphasizing the crucial need for clear communication and effective safety protocols in educational environments.
