Superintendent Zena Stenvik Advocates for Schools as Sanctuaries

Columbia Heights Public Schools leader speaks on impact of immigration enforcement on students and communities.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:00pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, impressionistic scene of blurred, colorful shapes and forms representing a diverse group of students in a warm, welcoming school environment, conveying a sense of safety and community.Superintendent Zena Stenvik's efforts to transform schools into sanctuaries for immigrant and undocumented students foster a sense of belonging and security.Princeton Today

Zena Stenvik, the Superintendent of Columbia Heights Public Schools in Minnesota, has become a prominent voice on the need for schools to serve as sanctuaries for students, especially those impacted by aggressive federal immigration enforcement. Stenvik has advocated for policies that protect undocumented students and create safe, welcoming environments for all children to learn.

Why it matters

Stenvik's advocacy highlights the crucial role that schools can play in supporting vulnerable student populations, particularly immigrant and undocumented children who may face heightened challenges and threats of deportation. Her work underscores the importance of educational institutions serving as safe havens and sources of stability for all students, regardless of immigration status.

The details

As superintendent, Stenvik has implemented policies that prohibit school staff from inquiring about a student's immigration status, restrict information sharing with immigration authorities, and ensure all students have access to a quality education. She has also worked to train teachers on how to support undocumented students and connect families with legal resources.

  • Stenvik became superintendent of Columbia Heights Public Schools in 2020.

The players

Zena Stenvik

The superintendent of Columbia Heights Public Schools in Minnesota, who has become a prominent advocate for schools serving as sanctuaries for immigrant and undocumented students.

Columbia Heights Public Schools

A school district in Minnesota that has implemented policies to protect undocumented students and create safe, welcoming environments under Stenvik's leadership as superintendent.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Schools must be places of learning, growth and safety for all students, regardless of their immigration status. We have a moral and legal obligation to ensure that our campuses are sanctuaries where children can thrive without fear of deportation or family separation.”

— Zena Stenvik, Superintendent, Columbia Heights Public Schools

The takeaway

Zena Stenvik's advocacy for schools as sanctuaries for immigrant and undocumented students underscores the critical role that educational institutions can play in supporting vulnerable populations and upholding principles of equity and inclusion.