Two Portland Public Schools in North Portland tightened security Thursday morning after reports of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in the area.
Schools Respond to ICE Reports
According to a message sent to families, Cesar Chavez School and George Middle School implemented perimeter security measures in response to reports of ICE agents nearby. Other nearby schools — including Astor, James John, Roosevelt, and Sitton — did not go into lockdown but maintained “heightened situational awareness” and continued to monitor the situation closely.
Portland Public Schools (PPS) stated that safety remains their top priority. Administrators are also developing dismissal plans to ensure students can return home “safely and smoothly” later in the day.
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District Acknowledges Community Concerns
In its letter to families, PPS recognized that news of ICE activity can create anxiety and uncertainty among students and families, especially those from immigrant communities.
“We recognize that news of ICE presence in the community can cause fear and uncertainty for some of our students and families,” the district wrote. “We want you to know that PPS is committed to providing an environment where students can learn, grow, and feel supported regardless of their immigration status.”
PPS Clarifies Its Policy on Information Sharing
The district also reaffirmed its stance on protecting student privacy. PPS emphasized that it does not collaborate with ICE or share any information about students or their families with the Department of Homeland Security without a valid judicial warrant.
This policy aligns with Portland’s status as a sanctuary city, which limits cooperation with federal immigration enforcement to protect residents from potential deportation risks.
Ongoing Monitoring
As of Thursday afternoon, PPS officials said the situation remained under observation, and no direct threat to students or staff had been reported.
Parents are being asked to stay informed through official district communications as updates become available.
