FARMINGTON, Maine (WGME) — There was an impassioned debate in Farmington on Tuesday over the fate of a principal and his Halloween costume.

Dozens of people turned out to share their experiences with Mount Blue Middle School Principal James Black.

During Halloween, Black had his picture taken while wearing a costume as an ICE officer.

The picture racked up thousands of views and hundreds of comments earlier this month.

Some accused Black of “mocking” students, saying the immigrant community feels intimidated by ICE.

At Tuesday’s regularly scheduled school board meeting, emotions ran high.

“When we come together around the values we believe in and the future we are working for we become a force for change,” Susan Black, James Black’s mother, said. “Your voice matters and your presence matters, thank you.”

In a letter to the community, Black says he regrets choosing the costume and claims he did it in a light-hearted spirit without consideration for broader implications.