UPDATE: District 518 officials have confirmed that rumors of Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence in Worthington are FALSE. Superintendent Joel Heitkamp addressed the community’s concerns on Thursday, following a social media post that sparked panic among parents and students.
In a statement released late Thursday afternoon, Heitkamp emphasized the district’s dedication to student safety, 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.” The superintendent reassured families, “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.”
The rumors surfaced just days after a tragic incident involving ICE agents in South Minneapolis on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, where a 37-year-old woman was shot and killed. Following the shooting, peaceful protests erupted across the Twin Cities, heightening community anxiety regarding immigration enforcement.
As tensions rose, neighboring communities like Rochester reported an increased ICE presence, intensifying fears of potential raids. However, District 518’s swift response aims to quell these concerns and restore a sense of security within the schools.
“We are committed to supporting our students and families and to ensuring our schools remain safe, welcoming, and focused on learning,” Heitkamp reiterated.
Officials urge parents and guardians to remain vigilant against misinformation and to communicate with school authorities for accurate updates. As the situation develops, the district will continue to provide transparent information to ensure the safety of all students.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and how it impacts the Worthington community.
