ICE says ‘Not Today’ to DC school raids on first day of classes: But can students learn under the shadow of tomorrow’s fear?

As schools in Washington DC reopen on August 25, the Trump administration’s new policy allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to enter schools under “exigent circumstances” has heightened anxiety among immigrant families. Experts warn that fear disrupts learning, with chronic stress impairing attention and memory. Schools are urged to prepare detailed protocols, provide trauma-informed support, and build strong community partnerships to safeguard students’ education and well-being.