(The Center Square) – The pandemic caused a three-fold decrease in student enrollment in public schools and 4,600 teaching positions were left vacant during the 2020-21 school year, according to preliminary data from Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
In a report to the U.S. Department of Education requesting funding from the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, DESE reported a 3.2% drop in school enrollment. The prior three-year average was less than 1%.
“Many students who were not enrolled previously will enroll for the coming year, many with a significant amount of lost instructional time,” the report stated.
DESE emphasized information for the school year just ended was incomplete. It pledged to continue analyzing academic achievement, attendance and other information for the entire state. Preliminary information shows reduced rates of enrollment are more pronounced for Black students, students from low-income families, and children and youth experiencing homelessness. When enrollment for schools in urban areas is separated, “the effects are more pronounced.” more here
Next week my son will be taking his first Public School English course.
There are literally NO JOBS for students in Toronto due to a very lengthy lockdown that is just starting to lift. For example, Restaurants are 20% capacity out door only. Driving Schools are still totally closed, & still no sports.
As a result he figured to take 1 month and do a course instead of Nothing.
I will let you know what that is like compared to the Private School he regularly attends which STILL had Exams, tests and VISUALLY CONFIRMED ZOOM attendance.
(Toronto public school was taught to a blacked out screen)
“Missouri: Plan-demic contributes to 3-fold enrollment drop in public schools”
I see good things in their future if this stays true.
@ Kcir
Good luck!
I’m amazed at the difference between our two home areas. Canada seems to treat their citizens poorly.
seriously, just think of all the $$$ school boards saved last year … didn’t need busses (fuel, driver salaries), didn’t need custodial services, cafeteria services, school nurses, supplies, replacement furnishing, electricity (except minimal HVAC)
I’m sure with all those school jurisdictions saving all that money the taxpayers are going to get a HUGE tax break this year! …. huh?
Mr μολὼν λαβέ –
The cafeterias were the only thing open in our schools last year – the kids had to come in for the free breakfast and lunch.
@Dadof4
What state/town are you in?
Day 1:
So far the boy had 15 min of homework today. he has never had it so easy.