Fridley schools cancel Friday classes over ICE fears
Fridley Public Schools has canceled all classes, activities and childcare for Friday with no online learning, citing 'fear and disruption' and a major spike in absences and staff shortages after heightened ICE enforcement in the area over the last 24 hours. Nearby Columbia Heights Public Schools will shift to district‑wide online learning Friday 'out of an abundance of caution,' keeping only Mini Adventures childcare open, as both north‑metro districts respond to families’ concerns about safety in traveling to school.
📌 Key Facts
- Fridley Public Schools emailed families that all schools are closed Friday with no in‑person or distance learning, no after‑school or evening activities, no building rentals, and no Community Education or Tiger Club childcare.
- The district said it is canceling school because many families and staff are 'scared, unsure if it is safe to travel or leave home' amid increased ICE activity, and noted a major spike in student absences and staff unavailability.
- Columbia Heights Public Schools announced it will move classes online for Friday out of 'an abundance of caution,' keeping Mini Adventures childcare open but closing Adventure Club, and plans to resume normal in‑person classes Monday.
📊 Relevant Data
Fridley, Minnesota has a population where 20.03% are Black or African American, which includes a significant portion of Somali immigrants, compared to the statewide average of 7% Black population in Minnesota.
Fridley, MN Population by Race & Ethnicity - 2025 Update — Neilsberg
Minnesota is home to approximately 107,000 people of Somali descent, representing about 2% of the state's population, with the majority living in the Twin Cities area including suburbs like Fridley and Columbia Heights.
By the numbers: Minnesota's Somali population, according to Census data — KTTC
Somali immigration to Minnesota began in the 1990s due to the Somali Civil War, with resettlement facilitated by voluntary agencies (VOLAGS) such as Lutheran Social Services and Catholic Charities, under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.
How Minnesota became a hub for Somali immigrants in the U.S. — NPR
Recent immigration raids have been associated with a 22% increase in daily student absences in affected schools, particularly among younger students, due to family fears of separation.
In Minnesota's Somali communities, ICE enforcement activities lead to decreased school attendance and increased community trauma, with families staying home and businesses experiencing reduced activity.
As ICE raids target Minnesota Somalis, community hubs fall silent — Sahan Journal
The foreign-born population in Minnesota has grown from 5% in 2000 to 9% in recent years, with significant increases in suburbs like Fridley due to refugee resettlement and economic opportunities.
By immigrant group - Minnesota Compass — Minnesota Compass
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