The Minneapolis Public School District (MPS) has decided to cancel classes for the remainder of the week due to safety concerns raised by an incident involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. This decision follows a shooting on Wednesday that involved the agency.
A federal agent shot and killed 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good after she allegedly attempted to run over a law enforcement officer during what was described as a “targeted operation.” A notice sent to families by MPS explained that schools would be closed on Thursday and Friday for “extreme caution” and safety reasons.
“Due to safety concerns related to today’s incidents across the city, out of an abundance of caution, schools will be closed on Thursday, January 8, 2026, and Friday, January 9, 2026,” the email stated. It also mentioned that all MPS-sponsored programs, including athletics and community education, would be suspended during this time.
According to the notice, MPS is collaborating with the City of Minneapolis and other partners on emergency preparedness and response efforts. It’s important to note that remote classes won’t take place during the closure.
MPS informed that the shooting incident occurred near the district’s high school. They confirmed that federal law enforcement was involved, and an investigation is currently underway. In a statement, MPS assured that they aim to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all students.
On social media, many speculated that the district was concerned about protests and civil unrest following the shooting. Some users even suggested that this decision might allow students and faculty to join in on protests across the city.
One user pointed out, “They probably know that the teachers want to protest, and they’re all going to call in sick anyway.” Others echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the closure was a “weaponization of public schools.”
With protests against ICE intensifying in Minneapolis after the shooting, the atmosphere became increasingly tense. Witnesses reported that demonstrations were becoming violent and aggressive. Some protesters burned flags while others confronted federal agents, necessitating police to possibly deploy tear gas.
Among the chants at the protests were calls to “fight back,” a phrase echoing Governor Tim Walz’s earlier comments describing the federal government’s approach to the state as a “war.” He expressed dissatisfaction with the federal administration, indicating that they are neglecting Minnesota’s needs.
Mayor Jacob Frey also criticized ICE, claiming that their presence has brought “chaos” to the city and called for their removal. The City Council issued a statement reflecting on the shooting, calling for accountability for anyone involved in such actions.
This is an evolving story and may be updated.
