A middle school principal in Maine is facing criticism after dressing as a federal immigration officer for Halloween. The costume included a bulletproof vest labeled “ICE.”

An image circulating widely online shows James Black, principal of Mt. Blue Middle School in Farmington, wearing the ICE outfit. The photo features Black in a bulletproof vest marked “Police ICE,” a cap with “ICE” written on it, and a gaiter patterned with blue stars and red stripes covering most of his face.

Christian Elkington, superintendent of the Mt. Blue Regional School Unit #9, confirmed the district is aware of the incident. “I have received several communications from staff members and others with concerns and/or questions about the matter,” Elkington told Boston.com Sunday night.

He added, “As we understand it, this situation occurred off RSU #9 grounds and was not connected to any RSU 9 activities. The district is responding to this situation in a manner consistent with our internal practices and procedures. We are also complying with our legal obligation to maintain the confidentiality of our employees.”

The tattoos visible on the man in the photo match those seen on Black’s Facebook profile. However, the profile appeared to have been taken down shortly after Boston.com viewed the images.

Project Relief Maine, an advocacy and mutual aid organization, shared the photo of the controversial costume on social media. They stated, “For immigrant students who already live in fear of ICE, this isn’t funny. It’s terrifying. Deportation isn’t a costume. It’s not a joke. It’s trauma.”

The group emphasized, “Students deserve to feel safe at school, not mocked by the very people who are supposed to protect them.”

Attempts to reach Black for comment on Sunday evening were unsuccessful.
https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2025/11/02/middle-school-principal-in-maine-draws-criticism-after-dressing-as-ice-agent-for-halloween/