More than a hundred students from North Penn High School staged a walkout on February 6, 2026, to protest against immigration enforcement actions affecting their community and the nation. The demonstration drew the support of approximately two dozen local residents, who gathered across the street to voice their solidarity.
As students exited the school, they marched through the parking lot and gathered along Valley Forge Road, despite the frigid temperatures. Many carried signs expressing their opposition to federal immigration policies that have become a hallmark of President Donald Trump‘s administration. The atmosphere was charged with energy as music played and chants such as “power to the students” and “no ICE in our streets” resonated through the area. Vehicles passing by honked in support, amplifying the students’ message.
Support from the community was evident, with residents cheering for the students. “You guys are brave. You guys are strong,” one demonstrator shouted, while another noted, “Students stand on the right side of history.” Many learned of the planned protest through social media, and parents expressed pride in their children’s activism. Amanda Lester, a local resident, mentioned that her daughter, a junior at the school, designed the digital posters that circulated prior to the event. “This is bigger than that, and missing one class is not as big as supporting her community,” Lester said, expressing her admiration for the students’ initiative.
School Administration’s Response
Ahead of the protest, Principal Kyle Hassler addressed students and families, acknowledging the importance of free speech while also emphasizing the school’s obligation to uphold attendance and instructional policies. In his message, he stated that students who participated in the walkout would be marked as skipping class and would not receive credit for any missed assignments. “These expectations are not intended to discourage student expression,” Hassler clarified.
The North Penn School District, which serves over 12,800 students across 17 schools, has not established any specific immigration-related policies, despite growing calls for such measures. In contrast, nearby districts like the Norristown Area School District have implemented their own guidelines to protect undocumented immigrants.
Community Impact and Broader Context
The demonstration at North Penn High School is part of a larger movement within Montgomery County. Activists have documented over 114 detainments in the county since June 2025, as federal immigration agents have maintained a visible presence in the area. In one significant incident, 14 undocumented individuals were detained in July 2025 at a local grocery store in West Norriton Township.
Local residents have expressed a pressing need for action. Donna Lockard, a North Penn High School alumna, articulated her motivation for participating: “I have to get out and do something.” Another resident, Mary Calderin, emphasized the importance of standing up for marginalized communities, stating, “It’s to show up, and protect them, and show up for them.”
The energy surrounding the protest reflects a growing trend of youth activism in the face of federal immigration policies. Local demonstrators hope that North Penn’s actions will inspire other schools to engage in similar efforts. Robin Biscardi, a community member, urged for increased participation from students across the region, saying, “I would love to see other schools in the area.”
As the protest unfolded, the voices of North Penn High School students echoed a collective demand for change, signaling a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about immigration enforcement and community solidarity.
