A Decline in Enrollment Leaves Chicago Schools Half-Empty
A recent report has revealed that declining enrollment in Chicago has left around 150 of its schools operating at half capacity.
The report, co-authored by ChalkBeat and ProPublica, found that 47 schools are functioning at less than one-third capacity, resulting in high costs and limited course offerings.
This year, Chicago Public Schools had approximately 325,000 students enrolled, a significant drop of 70,000 students from a decade ago.
“District officials predict that in three school years, the student population could decrease to as low as 300,000 or, at best, reach 334,000 students. These estimates are influenced by the city’s declining birth rates, with a more than 43% decrease in births from 2011 to 2021 citywide,” stated the report authors.
Despite facing enrollment challenges, the city spends an average of $18,700 per student, with some schools exceeding that amount. For instance, one school with only 28 students costs $93,000 per student.
DuSable High School, which has experienced declining enrollment, incurs an expense of nearly $50,000 per student. This school is among the 47 operating at less than one-third capacity.
Frederick Douglass Academy High School, with just 28 students this year, reportedly spends $93,000 per student.
As per the report, “Many of these schools are housed in historical buildings that require millions of dollars in renovations.”
An analysis by ProPublica and Chalkbeat revealed that “students in Chicago’s smallest schools have fewer course options and often miss out on extracurricular activities and sports. Underenrolled high schools in Chicago tend to have lower graduation and college enrollment rates, chronic truancy issues, and higher dropout rates.”
Leaders from the Chicago Teachers Union are looking to the city’s progressive agenda to attract families and fill the vacant classroom seats.
“CTU leaders believe that the city is on the verge of a population resurgence. Under President Donald Trump’s administration, Chicago, led by Johnson, can position itself as a progressive sanctuary—advocating for immigrants, abortion rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and access to gender-affirming healthcare for transgender individuals,” stated Jackson Potter, CTU’s vice president, as per the report.
The report also noted that Chicago has avoided school closures for several years due to pressure from the Chicago Teachers Union and a closure moratorium enforced in 2013.
CEO Pedro Martinez, who will soon be stepping down from his role, expressed concerns about the surplus of schools serving a minimal number of students. He cited backlash for his efforts to consolidate or shut down schools.
Fox News Digital reached out to Chicago Public Schools, Mayor Brandon Johnson, and Frederick Douglass Academy High School for comments but has not received responses at the time of writing.
