URGENT UPDATE: District 518 officials have confirmed that rumors of Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers operating within the community are FALSE. Superintendent Joel Heitkamp issued a statement late Thursday afternoon addressing a viral social media post that has caused alarm among students and families in Worthington, Minnesota.
“We feel it is important to clarify the misinformation circulating about alleged ICE activity involving students,” Heitkamp stated. The post originated from Mankato and has led to widespread concern throughout the district.
District leadership has taken immediate action, collaborating with local partners to investigate these claims. “We can confirm that the statements made in that post are not true,” Heitkamp emphasized, underlining the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all students.
This clarification comes in light of a tragic event earlier this week in South Minneapolis, where ICE agents were involved in a shooting that resulted in the death of a 37-year-old woman. Following this incident, protests have erupted across the Twin Cities and beyond, amplifying fears about ICE presence in various communities.
Moreover, reports from Rochester indicate an increased ICE visibility in their area, further heightening anxiety among local residents.
District 518 aims to reassure families that their safety is the highest priority. “We are committed to supporting our students and families and to ensuring our schools remain focused on learning,” Heitkamp concluded.
As this situation develops, community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and informed. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.
Stay tuned for more updates on this story as it unfolds.
