EDUCATION

Florida schools respond to nationwide student anti-ICE protests

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Sources: 11

Center 83%

Right 17%

Sources: 11

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. State and local officials responded to student-led walkouts protesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, warning schools to prevent disruptions during instructional hours. The Florida Department of Education sent districts a letter advising administrators to protect instructional time, acknowledging students retain free-expression rights. Florida districts reported lunchtime and class-period demonstrations at high schools in Tampa, Jacksonville, Brevard, Cape Coral and Lee County; school boards outlined potential suspensions or expulsions for leaving campus without permission. Republican lawmakers raised concerns about teacher involvement organizing walkouts. Houston-area districts issued similar warnings for Friday walkouts. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Nationwide protests began in response to ICE enforcement actions and related deaths in Minnesota.
Last week students at Leto High and other schools staged classroom and lunchtime walkouts.
The Florida Department of Education issued a letter to districts warning against instructional disruptions (sent Tuesday night in reports).
Brevard and other districts publicly warned of suspensions or expulsions for leaving campus without permission.
Houston-area districts and additional Florida schools planned Friday lunchtime walkouts with districts reiterating safety and discipline policies.