A Virginia high school has suspended more than 300 students who ditched class and walked out of campus during a student-led protest against federal immigration enforcement.
Woodbridge High School issued three-day suspensions to 303 students who participated in the walkout last Friday to “express their views” and protest U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to a letter sent to parents by principal Dr. Heather Abney and obtained by 7News.
The demonstration, which was not authorized by Prince William County Public Schools, spilled off school grounds and into nearby streets, forcing local police to manage traffic and monitor the crowd of hundreds of students.
In her letter, Abney acknowledged that walkouts allow students to express opinions on issues “important to them,” but emphasized that leaving campus without permission during school hours violates district rules.
“We appreciate your partnership as we continue to prioritize student safety while maintaining clear expectations for appropriate conduct during the school day,” she wrote, according to Fox News Digital.
Despite the suspensions, students across the district are now planning another walkout this Friday, according to a student-run Instagram account promoting efforts to “abolish” ICE.
A post from the account — known as pwcs_iceout — claimed administrators were aware of the planned demonstration and assured participants they would not face consequences.
“Welcome to Prince William County Schools ICE OUT,” the post declared, adding, “It’s time to take a stand.”
“As the walkout happening on Friday, February 20th will be county wide, it’s important to understand every campus has slightly different layouts and procedures,” the post continued. “Please stay alert for detailed instructions from us and your local student organizers regarding specific meetup spots.”
The account encouraged students to bring protest signs, remain peaceful, and stay on school grounds. It also acknowledged that the protest was not “approved or endorsed” by the district.
School officials have not yet announced what disciplinary action, if any, will be taken if another walkout occurs.
