Federal immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota, known as Operation Metro Surge, have raised serious concerns among educators about their impact on students and schools. Conducted last winter, the operation involved the deployment of thousands of immigration agents, leading to over 4,000 arrests and two deaths. It also sparked significant community unrest and fear, particularly in areas with large immigrant populations. Educators report that the heightened anxiety created by the operation disrupted a crucial time for students preparing for state standardized tests, potentially affecting their academic performance. The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments, which evaluate student learning across grades 3 through 8 and in high school, are expected to reflect the effects of Operation Metro Surge. Teachers have described a "mass psychosis" among students, with many becoming withdrawn or anxious. In some school districts, the number of students has dropped sharply, with some students reportedly disappearing overnight. These disruptions have raised concerns about the long-term effects on student engagement and academic success. A June report by Human Rights Watch criticized the operation for racial profiling, harassment, and excessive surveillance. It noted that nearly two-thirds of those arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had no prior criminal record in the U.S. The report also pointed out that the operation caused widespread fear, affecting basic rights such as freedom of expression, assembly, and access to education and health care. Despite local protests and calls for restraint, the Department of Homeland Security defended the operation, stating that ICE does not target schools and that the actions were necessary for public safety. Educators and union leaders, however, argue that standardized test results may not fully capture the negative effects of the operation. They stress the need to consider the context of student performance, including the trauma and disruption caused by the enforcement actions. A survey of 4,460 educators by Education Minnesota found that 72 percent were directly or indirectly affected by Operation Metro Surge, with the number rising to 93 percent in the Twin Cities area. Teachers reported increased student absenteeism, heightened anxiety, and students becoming more withdrawn. In the Twin Cities, nearly 90 percent of educators noted a rise in fear and a drop in student attendance. Educators are also worried about the long-term mental health impact on displaced students, pointing out the lack of available resources to support children affected by the operation. Some students reportedly gave up during tests, either shutting down their digital exams or rushing through questions without reading them. In response, Education Minnesota has partnered with other teacher unions to provide counseling and mental health training for educators. However, there are ongoing concerns about whether these efforts will be enough to address the deep psychological effects of the operation. As the Minnesota Department of Education prepares to release 2025-2026 assessment data, Education Minnesota plans to issue an official response.