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Students plan Feb. 13 walkout to raise awareness about ICE; organizers ask district for no-retaliation and safety support
Summary
Student organizers told the Arcadia Unified Board they plan a Feb. 13 walkout to educate peers about ICE’s impact on the Hispanic community and asked the district and parents to ensure participants face "no retaliation" and safe crossing arrangements.
Student organizers told the Arcadia Unified School District Board of Education on Feb. 10 that a student‑led walkout is scheduled for Feb. 13 during periods 5 and 6 to raise awareness about Immigration and Customs Enforcement and its effects on local families.
"Me and my peers and every student who wants to join us on February 13 should have no retaliation against them from anybody, not from the students, staff, or administration," Millie Cruz told the board during the public‑comment period. Cruz said the walkout is student‑run and that organizers have been coordinating with parents and school staff.
Karina Portocarero, who introduced herself as president of Arcadia High School's Hispanic Booster Club, said parent volunteers and student organizers have worked with school security and the principal and that the group has consulted outside guidance to ensure compliance with law. "They are doing everything by the book, and they are coordinating everything with security, the principal," Portocarero said, and asked for additional crossing support and clear communication so families know what to expect.
Board members did not take formal action during public comment. The presenters asked the district to make clear that students who participate will not face discipline and to consider logistical steps such as staffing crossing locations and communicating safety plans to parents.
