Under Trump, what happens if ICE agents show up at Akron Public Schools?

What can Akron Public Schools do if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement shows up at one of its schools? If ICE has a warrant, school officials can’t do much. 

The district on Thursday released guidance outlining protocols building administrators should follow if federal law enforcement agencies such as ICE show up on school property. 

“The plan aims to ensure the safety, well-being, and educational access of all students, regardless of immigration status, during any emergency, including immigration-related enforcement actions,” a district spokesperson wrote in response to questions from Signal Akron. 

The guidance follows a flurry of rumors on Tuesday that ICE was spotted in Akron’s North Hill neighborhood before district officials confirmed there was no ICE presence at APS buildings. Forest Hills Community Learning Center conducted a brief lockdown in response to the reports. 

What should Akron school administrators do if ICE shows up with a warrant? 

If federal authorities show up with a warrant, the district is asking building administrators to make copies of the officers’ identification and court orders. Also, document the interaction. 

“Do not physically impede, interfere with, or obstruct a government official in performing their duties,” the guidance reads. 

The district asks administrators to then contact APS Safety and Security Services, who will contact the legal department. 

Before allowing the federal officials into the school, the guidance suggests taking them to a “confidential space” to question the purpose of their visit. 

“We have clear protocols for building access and law enforcement presence on school grounds, designed to minimize disruptions and protect student privacy,” the district wrote to Signal Akron. “We work with legal counsel to stay informed of policy changes and maintain compliance.”

What if ICE agents show up while students are on APS buses? 

If ICE officials are spotted during school bus pickups and drop-offs — but they do not attempt to engage with students — bus drivers are advised to continue normal routes. 

If ICE officials attempt to engage, bus drivers are instructed to contact school officials.  

If an incident occurs en route to a school, a building administrator is instructed to meet students at the bus on school property and escort them inside the building. 

“Additional personnel should be available to take all the children to a safe, secure space,” the guidance reads. “ICE should be taken to and remain in the office area.” 

If ICE apprehends a student prior to them boarding the bus, APS wants the bus driver to signal 911 on the radio dispatch before contacting the transportation department with the student’s information. 

What if a student returns home to find their family absent and the student contacts APS? 

District officials should attempt to contact the student’s guardians at least three times, according to the guidance. Following that, they should attempt to reach emergency contacts before calling APS Safety and Security Services and Summit County Child and Family Services. 

“We proactively engage with families, providing information about their rights and available resources, including translated materials,” the district said in response to Signal Akron’s questions. “Staff training emphasizes student rights, confidentiality, and responding to immigration enforcement actions.”