Public Schools Are Going Broke In The U.S.

Public schools across the U.S. are facing a major funding crisis—driven by declining student enrollment and the end of pandemic-era ESSER funds. Districts that used temporary relief money to hire staff are now scrambling to make painful cuts, putting thousands of education jobs at risk. Critics say poor planning and long-standing financial mismanagement are making things worse, leaving students and communities caught in the fallout.

Watch the video to learn how this “fiscal cliff” could reshape public education and what it means for the future of schools, teachers, and families.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “attrition” mean? “Normally, when we have an enrollment decline, it happens gradually over time, and districts slowly and gradually use attrition to shrink their workforce.” Use this term in a sentence.
  2. Define the idiom “cut corners”. “Parents and teachers didn’t just oppose the layoffs. They accused the district of poor planning, misplaced priorities and cutting the wrong corners.“ Give a synonym or a similar expression and use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “staffing cuts” mean? “Pasadena Unified School District in Southern California announced to the community in 2024 that they were considering staffing cuts due to budget shortfalls.” Give a synonym and use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are the main reasons public school enrollment has been declining in the U.S. over the past few years?
  2. How might declining enrollment and the end of federal pandemic funds affect teachers, students, and local communities?
  3. Could these budget cuts and staff layoffs lead to long-term changes in how public education operates? Explain.
  4. Can you describe the current status of the education system in your country? How does it compare to the situation described in the article?
  5. If you were in charge of a school district facing budget cuts, what would you prioritize—staff, programs, or services? Explain your choice.
  6. What could be the future of education, the economy, and the workforce if these trends of declining enrollment and budget cuts continue?

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