More than a hundred students from North Penn High School in Towamencin walked out of classes on February 6, 2026, in a planned demonstration against immigration enforcement practices both locally and nationally. The protest was part of a broader movement against the federal immigration policies that have intensified during the administration of President Donald Trump.
As students exited the school, they formed a line that stretched through the parking lot and along Valley Forge Road. Despite the cold temperatures, they carried signs expressing their opposition to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. Chants filled the air, including messages like “power to the students,” “no justice, no peace, no ICE in our streets,” and “when I say ‘ICE,’ you say ‘out.’”
Support from the community was evident as around two dozen local residents gathered across the street, holding their own signs and cheering for the demonstrators. “You guys are brave. You guys are strong,” one supporter shouted, highlighting the solidarity between students and community members.
The protest gained traction through social media, with many residents commending the students’ initiative. Amanda Lester, a parent and local resident, noted that her daughter, a junior at North Penn, had designed digital posters to promote the event. Initially hesitant about her daughter skipping class, Lester later expressed pride in her daughter’s commitment to community support, emphasizing that “missing one class is not as big as supporting her community.”
Students had informed school leadership about the planned protest, with school principal Kyle Hassler addressing the potential consequences of participating in the walkout. In a message to students and families, he acknowledged the importance of free speech but reiterated the school’s obligation to enforce attendance policies. Students who participated were warned they would be marked as skipping class and would not receive credit for any missed assignments.
The North Penn School District, which serves approximately 12,808 students across 17 schools, has not implemented specific immigration-related policies, unlike some neighboring districts. Recent data shows the district’s demographic breakdown includes 52 percent white, 20.9 percent Asian, and 10.2 percent Hispanic students. Roughly 3,100 students are enrolled at North Penn High School.
In recent months, several municipalities have adopted immigration-related policies amidst growing advocacy for protections for undocumented immigrants. According to Montco Community Watch, a grassroots organization, there have been at least 114 detainments in Montgomery County since June 2025, prompting community members to take action. In one notable incident, 14 undocumented immigrants were detained during a raid at a grocery store in West Norriton Township.
Members of the community expressed a desire to protect marginalized individuals who are often targeted by ICE. “It’s important to protect marginalized people that are being targeted and attacked in our community,” said Mary Calderin, a Skippack resident. Her comments reflect a growing sentiment that community involvement is crucial in addressing these issues.
Periodic protests against ICE and immigration policies have increased across Montgomery County, particularly following recent violent incidents involving ICE agents. Demonstrators emphasized the importance of standing in solidarity with those who feel they cannot voice their concerns. “I wanted to come out to support the North Penn students who are using their voice to stand up for the people who don’t have voices,” one protester stated.
Supporters, including Robin Biscardi from Harleysville, praised the students for their activism, noting that their involvement is critical for their peers and neighborhoods. Biscardi hopes to see similar actions from other schools in the area, encouraging a united front against immigration enforcement policies.
As the situation continues to evolve, the actions of the North Penn High School students and their supporters reflect a broader movement advocating for immigration reform and the protection of community rights. The demonstration not only highlights the students’ commitment to social justice but also serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that youth can play in shaping community discourse.
