300 Virginia high school students suspended over anti-ICE walkout

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More than 300 students from Woodbridge High School in Virginia were suspended for three days after they walked out of class and left campus during a student-led protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The demonstration, which was not approved by the school district, eventually spilled off school grounds and onto the streets, forcing local police to manage traffic and oversee the hundreds of students involved. While the school principal acknowledged that walkouts allow students to voice their opinions, she noted that leaving campus without permission during school hours violates district rules.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between student activism and school policies, as well as the challenges schools face in balancing student expression with maintaining order and safety on campus. The suspensions have sparked further planned walkouts across the district, raising questions about the appropriate response from school administrators.

The details

According to reports, some students went home after the protest, while others headed to a nearby shopping center. Several students also returned to campus, where a few caused a disturbance. The school principal, Dr. Heather Abney, informed parents in a letter that while walkouts allow students to voice their opinions on issues important to them, leaving campus without permission during school hours violates district rules.

• The walkout took place on Friday, February 16, 2026.
• Students across the district are planning another walkout on Friday, February 20, 2026.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the suspended students to return to school early.