St. Paul Public Schools Take Precautions Amid Increased Federal Activity in Minneapolis
Following the fatal shooting of a woman by a federal agent in Minneapolis, St. Paul Public Schools (SPPS) has canceled all field trips and athletics planned in Minneapolis for Thursday and Friday. The district is working to reassure families of student safety amid increased federal actions in the Twin Cities. Superintendent Stacie Stanley expressed her concern and commitment to student safety in a communication to families, stating that “school is one of the safest places that students can be.”
The fatal shooting has intensified fear in the community, and SPPS is taking proactive measures to ensure student safety. Field trips and athletics scheduled to take place in Minneapolis, including a middle school debate competition at Roosevelt High School and a wrestling meet at Benilde-St. Margaret’s in St. Louis Park, have been canceled. Federal agents will not be granted access to SPPS schools or buildings without a verified judicial warrant, and staff will be present outside schools during drop-off and pickup times.
Safety Protocols in Place
SPPS has safety protocols in place in the event of federal activity or other safety concerns near schools. If ICE activity or other safety concerns are verified near a school, school officials will coordinate with SPPS security and the St. Paul Police Department, and may put the school into a Secure protocol. This means that students will stay inside, and outside doors will be locked until the area is cleared. Students who do not feel safe getting off the bus can inform the driver, who will make arrangements for safe transportation home.
Students who walk to and from school are encouraged to travel in groups and stay aware of their surroundings. SPPS schools are locked, and all visitors must identify themselves before being let into the building. The district has also provided guidelines for parents on how to talk with their children about the fatal shooting, which can be found at tinyurl.com/2p9kmn7x.
Community Support and Resources
SPPS is committed to supporting families and students during this time. Superintendent Stanley encouraged families to lean on each other and offer support to those who may need it. The district has also provided resources and safety tips on its website, spps.org/immigration and spps.org/safety. For more information on SPPS protocols and procedures, families can visit the district’s website.
In Minneapolis, Minneapolis Public Schools have canceled classes and district activities for Thursday and Friday due to safety concerns. The cancellations come after a report of armed U.S. Border Patrol officers entering school property at Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis during Wednesday’s dismissal period.
For the latest updates and information on SPPS procedures and protocols, visit Here
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