Woodbridge High: 300+ Students Suspended After ICE Walkout

More than 300 students at Woodbridge High School in Prince William County, Virginia, received three-day suspensions following a student-led walkout protesting federal immigration enforcement policies on February 13, 2026, school officials confirmed.

The suspensions were issued after students left school property without authorization during the demonstration, according to a letter sent to families by Principal Dr. Heather Abney. Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) identified the students through an attendance review process, confirming those present at school before 10:30 a.m. Were absent after that time. PWCS Communications Director Diana Gulotta confirmed the disciplinary action followed this process.

The walkout involved over 250 students who marched along Old Bridge Road, prompting Prince William County Police to provide traffic control. While the demonstration was not supported by PWCS, it mirrored a nationwide wave of student protests opposing recent actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Abney’s letter acknowledged students’ right to express their views but emphasized that leaving campus during school hours violated district rules. The letter also noted that some students reportedly went home, others went to a nearby shopping center, and a few who returned to campus caused a disturbance. “We appreciate your partnership as we continue to prioritize student safety while maintaining clear expectations for appropriate conduct during the school day,” Abney wrote.

Despite the suspensions, students across the district are planning another walkout for February 20, 2026, according to a student-led Instagram page advocating for the abolition of ICE. A post on the page stated that administrators were aware of the planned demonstration and assured participants it would not result in disciplinary action.

Other schools within the district, including Gainesville Middle, held supervised on-campus demonstrations without reported suspensions, according to PWCS. The differing responses highlight the division’s policy regarding leaving school grounds during protests.