On December 19, multiple Spanish-language bilingual charter schools in Columbus closed their doors earlier than scheduled due to a significant drop in student attendance. This decision came amid widespread reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations throughout the city.
School Closures and Safety Concerns
Columbus Bilingual Academy North, West, and Central campuses all decided to close for the day. Michael Mora Brenes, principal of Columbus Bilingual Academy North, explained that the low attendance prompted the closure. "As with any operational decision, our priority is student safety and ensuring a productive learning environment," Mora Brenes said in a statement. "We are aware of heightened concern among some families in the community, and we respect their decision-making as we continue to communicate directly with our school community."
The schools were originally scheduled to begin their winter break on December 22 and return on January 5, according to their academic calendars.
Community Impact and Federal Operations
Reports of ICE activity in Columbus have increased recently, with city officials confirming an ongoing operation and contacting federal authorities. Since December 18, rumors about federal law enforcement presence near schools have circulated, affecting several charter institutions.
At an emergency meeting with Columbus' Somali community on December 18, a photo was presented showing what was described as four ICE agents outside Horizon Science Academy's Columbus Elementary School. The photographer reported that shortly after the photo was taken, two staff members were stopped and questioned by agents while walking between buildings on the Morse Road campus.
Another photo circulating on social media on December 18 claimed to show federal law enforcement near Zenith Academy North, a charter school serving students with Limited English Proficiency. The school's principal confirmed that no families or students from Zenith were detained in connection with the incident.
Addressing Rumors
John Marschhausen, superintendent of Dublin City Schools, addressed rumors circulating in local social media groups about federal law enforcement activity at or near Dublin Scioto High School. He confirmed that no such incident had occurred, noting there was a traffic stop on Emerald Parkway that was not near any schools and did not involve students.
The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, rescinded a policy directive in January that had previously prevented agents from enforcing immigration laws in "sensitive areas" such as schools, places of worship, and hospitals.
