Fear of ICE in Florida's back-to-school: the extent to which migrant families leave their children at home

As schools reopened across many districts in Florida this week, growing fears among migrant families have led some to keep their children home rather than send them to school, citing concerns over immigration enforcement operations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The issue has gained attention after recent reports highlighted the anxiety faced by undocumented mothers who fear their children could be taken during raids. These concerns have intensified since former President Donald Trump returned to the White House, with Florida's government under Governor Ron DeSantis expanding cooperation with federal authorities. The situation has been documented through interviews with Guatemalan mothers living without proper documentation in Florida. One mother, who requested anonymity, expressed her worries about potential ICE operations near schools. She described hearing rumors that children might be removed from schools and taken to their parents' homes before being deported. “They say they will take our kids from school, bring them to where we live, and deport us,” she said. “They will take away our children, who were born here, and that’s the fear. Who will look after our children?” Another mother, who lives with her three children in Florida, shared similar concerns. “Out of fear, sometimes I don’t want to send my three children to school anymore. I prefer they stay home. We’re already afraid to go to work.” In response to these fears, ICE emphasized that educational institutions are not targets of its operations or raids. According to a press release published on the official website of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in September 2025, the agency stated clearly that it does not conduct raids or attack schools. Then Deputy Secretary Tricia McLaughlin noted that ICE does not enter schools to arrest minors. However, she acknowledged scenarios in which immigration agents might enter a school, such as if a dangerous criminal fugitive took refuge there or if someone working at the school was found to be sexually abusing children. “This would be done to protect public safety, but this has not happened,” she added. Despite assurances from ICE that schools themselves are not targeted, incidents involving immigration arrests have occurred in areas surrounding educational facilities. This has contributed to the perception among migrant communities that the journey to school or the immediate vicinity is not safe for families. Reports indicate that while the schools are not directly targeted, the surrounding areas have seen increased activity related to immigration enforcement. Since Trump’s return to the presidency, the state government of Florida has significantly ramped up operations targeting undocumented migrants, aligning with federal policies. Between January 20 and October 15, 2025, a total of 20,629 immigration-related arrests were recorded in Florida, averaging approximately 77 arrests per day. This represents a sharp increase compared to the same period in 2024, when daily arrests averaged around 20. The rise in arrests underscores the heightened focus on immigration enforcement under the current administration. Migrant families continue to navigate these challenges independently, often relying on legal resources to protect their status. Some are seeking legal remedies to prevent deportation, although efforts to eliminate certain protections for undocumented immigrants remain a point of contention. Despite these measures, the uncertainty surrounding immigration enforcement continues to impact the daily lives of migrant families, particularly affecting their decisions regarding education for their children.