School closures are accelerating in US, but more financial pain lies ahead

The closure of U.S. schools is accelerating, but more financial troubles remain ahead, according to a new analysis by Stanford University researchers. During the last academic year, a record 1,156 schools shut down, the highest number since the pandemic, as cash-strapped districts seek to save money.

The Vallejo City Unified School District, near San Francisco, serves a quarter fewer students than it did two decades ago and has closed five campuses since 2025. The district also laid off up to a third of its staff to help cover a $36 million deficit.

However, closing schools rarely provides the financial relief districts hope for. Busing students to new schools, severance payments for laid-off teachers, and security for empty facilities often consume any savings. Additionally, closures can hinder student academic performance and make it harder to attract teachers concerned about job stability.

Lower birth rates, a federal crackdown on immigration, and the rise of private school vouchers and homeschooling have contributed to enrollment decline. Between fall 2019 and 2024, public school enrollment fell by more than 1.4 million students, or roughly 3%. California has one of the nation's steepest enrollment drops.

In Vallejo, enrollment has plummeted from nearly 18,000 in 2006 to about 9,300, according to the district. Nationwide, public school enrollment has fallen by 1.4 million students, and the total number of schools has declined but remains only at pre-pandemic levels.

Experts warn that declining enrollment and financial troubles could lead to widespread layoffs, cuts to academic programs, and additional school closures.