URGENT UPDATE: District 518 has swiftly addressed alarming rumors regarding the presence of Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Worthington, confirming that the claims circulating on social media are FALSE. Superintendent Joel Heitkamp released a statement late Thursday afternoon, emphasizing the district’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of students and families.
The misinformation originated from a post in Mankato and rapidly spread throughout the school district, prompting immediate action. Heitkamp stated, “We feel it is important to address a social media post that circulated yesterday and today regarding alleged ICE activity in Worthington involving students.”
Authorities have confirmed there is no verified ICE activity in the Worthington area. “District leadership has worked closely with our local partners to review these claims, and we can confirm that the statements made in that post are not true,” Heitkamp reassured parents and students.
This situation arises in the wake of a tragic incident where individuals linked to ICE were involved in a shooting on Wednesday morning in South Minneapolis, which resulted in the death of a 37-year-old woman. Following the shooting, peaceful protests have erupted in the affected neighborhood and extended to various locations across the Twin Cities and nationwide.
In a related development, Rochester officials noted an increased ICE presence in their community, further fueling concerns among residents. However, District 518 emphasizes that there is no cause for alarm regarding their schools.
Heitkamp highlighted the district’s proactive approach, stating, “We are committed to supporting our students and families and to ensuring our schools remain safe, welcoming, and focused on learning.”
Authorities urge parents to remain vigilant against misinformation and to verify facts through official channels. As the situation evolves, District 518 will continue to provide updates to ensure transparency and maintain community trust.
Parents and community members are encouraged to share this information widely to combat the spread of false rumors. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
