Students Say South Western School Admin Disrespected ICE Protest

District says it acted to keep students safe during walkout against ICE operations.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Students at South Western City Schools' Central Crossing High School say the administration responded harshly to their walkout protest on Feb. 19 against ICE operations, trying to corral them into the stadium and threatening punishment. The district says it altered the protest plans for student safety due to social media posts advertising the event.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between student activists and school administrators over protests related to immigration enforcement. It raises questions about balancing students' free speech rights with school safety concerns.

The details

According to student Matteo Guillen, the administration had agreed to a protest route but then tried to direct students into the football stadium, physically preventing some from leaving. Administrators also threatened suspensions if students didn't follow instructions. Many students left campus out of fear of punishment.

  • On Feb. 19, several dozen students staged a walkout protest against ICE operations at Central Crossing High School.
  • Prior to the protest, students and the administration had agreed on a route the protest would follow.

The players

Matteo Guillen

A junior at Central Crossing High School who participated in the ICE protest.

Evan Debo

A spokesperson for South Western City Schools.

Steve Fairs

The principal of Central Crossing High School.

South Western City Schools

The school district that oversees Central Crossing High School.

Central Crossing High School

The high school where the ICE protest took place.

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What they’re saying

“They did eventually get out of the the football field, but they had to basically push through a bunch of teachers.”

— Matteo Guillen, Student (The Dispatch)

“We obviously need to be able to pivot and work on implementing some protocols that preserve their safety on campus.”

— Evan Debo, South Western City Schools Spokesperson (The Dispatch)

“When information comes from accounts whose identities and intentions are unknown, there is a real risk that those behind the messages may have ulterior motives or may not fully consider the safety and well-being of our students.”

— Steve Fairs, Central Crossing High School Principal (The Dispatch)

What’s next

The district says it will work on implementing protocols to preserve student safety during future protests, while still honoring their free speech rights.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges schools face in balancing student activism and free expression with maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment. It underscores the need for clear communication and collaboration between students and administrators when it comes to protest planning and execution.