Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Over 1,000 US Public Schools Closed in 2025-26
Over 1,000 public schools in the US closed in the 2025-26 school year.
This happened because fewer kids are going to public schools, and the schools don't have enough money.
The number of schools closing has been going up for four years.
Experts say this is because there are fewer kids in the US and the money from the Covid-19 relief funds is gone.
Some families are also moving to suburbs or choosing private or charter schools.
The government thinks there will be even fewer students in the future, which might mean more schools will close.
Over 1,000 public schools closed in the 2025-26 school year due to declining enrollment and financial pressures.
This marks the fourth consecutive year of rising public school closures, with a 35% increase over four years.
Federal projections indicate a continued decline in public school enrollment, with nearly 4 million fewer students expected by 2031.
School districts in Houston, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Broward County, Florida, have already planned additional closures.
Families are relocating to suburban areas or opting for private schools through voucher programs or charter schools.
- Who
- Public school districts across the US
- What
- Over 1,000 public schools closed
- When
- 2025-26 school year
- Where
- United States
- Why
- Declining student enrollment and financial pressures
Public School Advocates
Charter School Supporters
Funding and Enrollment
Public School Advocates
Public schools need more funding to maintain facilities and programs despite declining enrollment.
Charter School Supporters
Charter schools offer more efficient use of public funds and attract families seeking alternative education options.
- Number of Schools Closed
- 1,000+
- Year
- 2025-26
- Primary Cause
- Declining enrollment and financial pressures
- Increase in Closures
- 35% over four years
- Projected Student Decline
- Nearly 4 million by 2031