ICE enforcement during Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota has completely upended life in Fridley Public Schools. In Fridley, immigrant staff have been escorted to school by colleagues, the superintendent conducted daily patrols for ICE agents, and fear of ICE enforcement has sown fear among students and families.

Despite the federal occupation, Superintendent Lewis has earned respect from leaders across the country for her outstanding leadership in recent months, fighting to advance access, opportunity, and belonging for all of her students.

As Superintendent Lewis noted recently before addressing the People's State of the Union, "As a superintendent and lifelong educator, I’m looking forward to speaking out about the unacceptable reality our school district has endured at the hands of a federal agency - and to make sure this never happens to another school district in the nation again.”

Superintendent Lewis will discuss:

• How educators should prepare for and respond effectively to immigration enforcement activities in their communities.
• What worked best for her district for protecting and supporting students.
• Issues like student absenteeism and retention, as well as funding issues that have the potential to harm students now and in the future.
• What advocates and policy makers should know as they build systemic protections for schools and students in the future.  

The discussion will also include an opportunity for questions and answers.