Minnesota Immigrant Families Face Fears Sending Kids to School

Thousands of children stay home as parents worry about immigration enforcement near schools

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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In Minnesota, immigrant families are facing difficult decisions about sending their children to school due to fears of immigration enforcement. Many parents are keeping their kids home, either out of concern for their safety or because they lack transportation options. Schools, parents, and community groups are working to help students get to class, but the fear of detention and deportation weighs heavily on these families.

Why it matters

This story highlights the challenges faced by immigrant families in Minnesota who are caught in the crosshairs of increased immigration enforcement. It underscores the impact on children's education and well-being, as thousands are missing school and becoming isolated from their peers and support systems. The situation raises broader questions about the role of schools, the rights of undocumented students, and the effects of immigration policies on local communities.

The details

Immigrant families in Minnesota are grappling with the difficult decision of whether to send their children to school, fearing that they could be detained by immigration authorities. Many parents have stopped taking their kids to school or daycare, with some giving up jobs to minimize the risk. Schools, teachers, and community groups are trying to help get students to class safely, including walking them home in groups. However, the fear is palpable, with students and parents reporting encounters with immigration officers near schools. The situation has led to a surge in school absenteeism and demand for online learning options.

  • In January 2026, over 9,000 students were absent from St. Paul schools, more than a quarter of the district.
  • In the Minneapolis suburb of Fridley, school attendance has dropped by nearly a third.

The players

Giancarlo

A 10-year-old boy who still attends school in Minneapolis, but whose younger brother has stopped going to daycare due to his mother's fears.

Liam Conejo Ramos

A 5-year-old boy who was detained with his father while arriving home from school in the Minneapolis suburb of Columbia Heights, before being released by a judge.

Stacie Stanley

The superintendent of the St. Paul school district, who has introduced a temporary virtual learning option after receiving letters from students expressing fears about coming to school due to immigration enforcement.

Rene Argueta

The family liaison at Valley View Elementary School in Minnesota, who has organized teachers to walk and drive students to and from their homes to ensure their safety.

Jenna Scott

A second-grade teacher at Valley View Elementary School who tries to keep conversations with students light during the walks home, while also being aware of the need to move quickly.

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What they’re saying

“God, please protect my son when he's not at home.”

— Giancarlo's mother (Associated Press)

“I don't feel safe with him going to school. But every day he wakes up and wants to go. He wants to be with his friends.”

— Giancarlo's mother (Associated Press)

“The teachers cry. It's sad.”

— Giancarlo (Associated Press)

“It raises my blood pressure.”

— A mother from Mexico (Associated Press)

“I'm so excited to see your house. Have you signed up for parent-teacher conference?”

— Jenna Scott, Second grade teacher (Associated Press)

What’s next

Schools, parents, and community groups will continue to work on ways to safely transport students to and from school, as well as advocate for policies that protect the rights of undocumented students. The legal status of the immigration enforcement operations near schools is also likely to be challenged in court.

The takeaway

This story underscores the difficult choices and fears facing immigrant families in Minnesota, who must weigh the importance of their children's education against the very real risks of immigration enforcement. It highlights the vital role that schools and communities play in supporting these families and ensuring that all children have access to a safe and supportive learning environment, regardless of their immigration status.