URGENT UPDATE: District 518 Superintendent Joel Heitkamp confirmed that rumors of Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Worthington schools are completely unfounded. The announcement came late Thursday afternoon, following a social media post that sparked fear among students and families.
Heitkamp addressed the false claims directly, stating, “We feel it is important to address a social media post that circulated yesterday and today regarding alleged ICE activity in Worthington involving students.” He emphasized the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all students.
The rumors surfaced after a tragic incident involving ICE officers in South Minneapolis on Wednesday morning, which resulted in the death of a 37-year-old woman. The shooting has led to peaceful protests across the Twin Cities and other parts of the nation, raising concerns about increased ICE visibility in local communities. Notably, nearby Rochester has reported a heightened ICE presence as tensions rise.
Heitkamp reassured parents and guardians, stating, “District leadership has worked closely with our local partners to review these claims, and we can confirm that the statements made in that post are not true. We are committed to supporting our students and families and to ensuring our schools remain safe, welcoming, and focused on learning.”
As the situation develops, officials urge the community to remain calm and rely on verified information. This incident highlights the importance of accurate communication, especially in times of emotional turmoil.
Stay tuned for more updates as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
