Milwaukee Public Schools Prepares for Potential ICE Visits

MPS staff to practice response protocols and support families in case of immigration enforcement actions at schools

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) is preparing its staff and students for the possibility of visits from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at district schools. MPS has shared plans to implement a "hold" procedure, where staff will lock doors and keep students in classrooms, as well as refer any agents to the district's central office. The district does not collect information on students' immigration status and is offering virtual learning options for families who feel unsafe sending their children to school. MPS is also monitoring student-led protests against ICE, though staff are prohibited from engaging in political activities during the school day.

Why it matters

This story highlights the ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and the impact it can have on students and families, especially in diverse urban school districts like Milwaukee. MPS is taking proactive steps to protect its community and ensure students can continue learning in a safe environment, even as the threat of ICE raids looms.

The details

MPS staff will be practicing the "hold" protocol, where they will lock doors and keep students in classrooms, in the coming weeks when students are not present. The district will also refer any ICE agents to the central office, where attorneys will review any warrants or documents presented. MPS does not collect information on students' immigration status and is offering virtual learning options for families who feel unsafe sending their children to school. While MPS recognizes students' rights to protest, staff are prohibited from engaging in political activities during the school day.

  • In the coming weeks, MPS staff will be practicing their response protocol.
  • Last spring, a father was arrested by immigration agents shortly after dropping his daughter off at school.

The players

Brenda Cassellius

The superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools, who grew up in Minneapolis and says the issue of immigration enforcement is deeply personal to her.

Michael Harris

The interim deputy superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools, who has shared details about the district's plans in response to potential ICE visits.

Milwaukee Public Schools

The public school district serving the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which is preparing its staff and students for the possibility of immigration enforcement actions at its schools.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I know these are difficult times for our community and our families. Many friends and family have been living through the chaos and dangers we have seen unfold there. This issue is deeply personal to me. Here in Milwaukee Public Schools, we welcome all families and we are committed to protecting them.”

— Brenda Cassellius, Superintendent, Milwaukee Public Schools

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.