Public school districts across Southern California are experiencing declining enrollment, leading to budget shortfalls and potential school closures. The issue is compounded by lower birth rates, outmigration, and the rise of alternative education options. Despite receiving substantial federal pandemic relief funding, California's public schools have been slow to address the problem, leaving them vulnerable as funding dwindles.
LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho speaks during a visit to John Mack Elementary school to mark the first day of the school year’s second semester Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Los Angeles. Public school districts across Southern California are losing students and, in the years ahead, will likely face difficult choices about closing schools. Lower birth rates and outmigration have contributed to the enrollment drops.
School districts facing these massive deficits should be looking to right size. However, new data from Reason Foundation shows that California’s public schools have been slow to respond to the red ink and loss of students. In fact, California has actually closed fewer public schools in recent years.
California also has a generous hold harmless provision in its funding formula, allowing public schools to collect funding for students they had in previous years but who are no longer at the schools—known as “ghost students.” A Reason Foundation study estimated that California funded 401,00 ghost students in 2022-2023, costing taxpayers $4 billion.
State policymakers should shine a light on the problem by requiring the state to collect and report on vacant and underutilized school buildings annually. That way, taxpayers and other stakeholders can hold public schools accountable for being good stewards of public resources. For their part, local policymakers must tackle enrollment declines and school closures head-on and resist attempts to delay or block plans to reduce their facilities footprint.
SCHOOL CLOSURES BUDGET SHORTFALLS ENROLLMENT DECLINE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS EDUCATION FUNDING
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
California Schools Face a Future of Declining Enrollment and Budget CrunchFacing a decline in student enrollment and the looming expiration of federal pandemic relief funding, California's public schools are bracing for a future of budget cuts and difficult decisions. The text explores the challenges posed by declining enrollment, the impact of the loss of federal funding, and the need for schools to make tough choices to ensure the well-being of students.
Read more »
California Schools Face Uncertainty After Wildfires as Reopening Protocols Remain MurkyThe text discusses the challenges faced by California schools in reopening after wildfires. It highlights the lack of clear, consistent guidance from state and federal agencies, leaving parents and school officials uncertain about safety protocols. The article emphasizes the need for thorough cleaning, testing, and remediation processes to address lingering health risks posed by wildfire smoke and debris. It encourages parents to engage with their school communities and demand transparency regarding reopening plans.
Read more »
Mesa Public Schools to Eliminate Positions Due to Declining Enrollment and FundingThe Mesa Public Schools district in Arizona will eliminate positions due to declining enrollment and a decrease in federal and state funding. Superintendent Dr. Andi Fourlis announced the cuts, which are estimated to be around $18 million for the 2025-2026 school year, stating that nearly 90% of the district's expenses go towards staff salaries. The district anticipates a decline of 1,800 students next year, and funding is directly tied to enrollment numbers. Impacted staff will be notified by February 7th.
Read more »
NYC Schools Shut Down Beloved Childcare Centers, Citing Low EnrollmentThe New York City Department of Education is closing several early childcare centers in Brooklyn, citing low enrollment and budget cuts. Parents and staff are fighting the closures, emphasizing the vital role these centers play in their communities and the unique needs they serve.
Read more »
Parents urge Seattle Public Schools to expand open enrollment to keep families in districtA group of parents claims Seattle Public Schools is mismanaging its option schools.
Read more »
California man charged with making mass shooting threats at 24 Utah schoolsA California man is facing two dozen criminal charges accusing him of calling 24 Utah County schools and leaving messages stating a mass shooting would take place.
Read more »