Chicago Public Schools Enrollment Drops, Preliminary Data Show

Chicago Public Schools' enrollment has decreased to roughly 313,000 this fall, a drop of about 12,000 students from the previous year. Preliminary data reveals declines in the number of Black students and English language learners, and the district has not commented on these early figures. CPS anticipates changes in enrollment as late registrations and student mobility continue to influence numbers. The district has faced ongoing enrollment declines over the past decade, exacerbated by reduced immigration and rising living costs in certain neighborhoods. Charter schools reported sharper losses, with a decline of over 6%, particularly affecting four campuses that the Acero charter network aimed to close last year.

District officials express concern that upcoming immigration enforcement could further decrease attendance and enrollment. High school enrollment fell nearly 4%, slightly more than elementary enrollment. These trends highlight the challenges CPS faces in maintaining student numbers amid ongoing demographic shifts.