Message Regarding Student Walkouts, February 4, 2026

Dear ISD Families, Students and Staff,  

I know that recent events and public discussions related to immigration enforcement have caused fear, uncertainty and strong emotions for many students and families. Across the country, these concerns have contributed to student protests growing in size and participation. Based on what we are seeing and hearing locally, we anticipate the possibility of student-led walkouts at most ISD middle and high schools. 

We care deeply about student safety and belonging. We will continue to communicate with students, families and staff about the district’s role, and the safety measures and procedures we have in place. Students choose to exercise their First Amendment rights. 

Student‑led walkouts in our district have historically been peaceful. The district does not organize student walkouts, and we have a responsibility to have plans in place for when walkouts occur. In nearby districts and other states, publicized walkouts have at times raised safety concerns, including the presence of individuals not affiliated with schools who have engaged students. We do not want any of our students placed at risk, and we will continue to work closely with school leaders, our security teams and law enforcement to prioritize student safety at all schools. 

In all circumstances related to student walkouts, the district will follow established regulations with student safety as our highest priority. Families should understand the district’s expectations and response if a student chooses to participate in a walkout: 

• Each school is a closed campus, and only current students and staff are permitted on school grounds during the day. 
• Students have First Amendment rights to peaceful assembly under ISD Regulation 3223 (Freedom of Assembly). 
• Leaving class without prior approval will be treated as an unexcused absence. 
• Once students leave our campus, the school cannot supervise their actions. 
• Any speech or behavior that is harassing, intimidating, discriminatory, uncivil, bullying and/or substantially disrupting the orderly operation as described in ISD Regulation 3207 (Prohibition Against Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying) and ISD Regulation 3210 (Nondiscrimination) will not be tolerated. 
• Damaging school or district property must be documented and appropriate student discipline will be considered, as described in ISD Regulation 3241 (Classroom Management, Discipline and Corrective Action).  

While not directly connected to student walkouts, we continue to receive questions about immigration enforcement on our campuses. There has been no Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity on our campuses, and the district does not support or coordinate immigration enforcement on school grounds. The district has clear regulations and procedures in place, and it has been shared previously with families and staff in the January 12 bulletin in and outlined in ISD Regulation 4300 (Limiting Immigration Enforcement in Schools). 

We encourage families to talk with their children about making thoughtful choices, understanding their rights and responsibilities, and prioritizing personal safety. If a student feels unsafe or uncomfortable, they should reach out to a counselor, trusted teacher or administrator. Counselors are available to support students.   

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if circumstances change. Thank you for your partnership in helping us maintain a safe, respectful and inclusive school community. 

Sincerely, 

Heather Tow-Yick 
Superintendent