California School Enrollment Declines Seventh Year Amid Rising Low-Income Student Numbers

Public school enrollment trends vary notably across states, reflecting demographic shifts and local initiatives. In California, public school enrollment continues to decline but at a slower pace, with a 0.54% decrease in 2024–25; however, programs like Transitional Kindergarten (TK) are experiencing rapid growth, with TK enrollment up 17.2%, indicating family interest in early learning opportunities despite ongoing economic challenges and a significant gap between incoming and outgoing student cohorts. Similarly, in Washington D.C., public school enrollment has increased for three consecutive years, especially in middle and high schools, although early grades face challenges due to declining birth rates and federal employment uncertainties. Oklahoma’s public schools have maintained relatively stable enrollment numbers amid demographic challenges and the rise of private school vouchers, with some districts successfully attracting students through specialized programs and family support services. Overall, these trends underscore the complexity of enrollment changes nationwide, influenced by demographic declines, economic factors, and targeted educational programs aiming to stabilize or grow student populations.