Public schools are hemorrhaging students as seven of Oregon’s 10 largest school districts record their lowest enrollment levels in at least 17 years.
Enrollment Figures Drop By 9,000
Public school enrollments fell by a staggering 9,000 students in the 2025-26 academic year, the biggest decline since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The harsh reality is that teachers will face unemployment as budgets tighten and schools are earmarked for closure.
Portland Records the Highest Student Losses
Portland is the biggest school district in Oregon and the one with the biggest loss, enrolling 6,570 fewer students compared to its peak in 2019.
Beaverton is another district feeling the pressure, losing nearly 4,650 since its former peak.
Education Authorities Face a Financial Dilemma
Education authorities now face a financial dilemma. Fewer enrollments equate to a reduction in state funding, while fixed costs such as transportation, building maintenance, and other infrastructure remain unchanged.
Salem-Keizer Considers Closing Up to Eight Schools
An example of the grim reality facing Oregon educators is the Salem-Keizer school district, where eight schools face closure as enrollment figures have dropped by 4,000 fewer students from 40,000 a few years ago…