Some of California's smallest rural schools cost far more per student than larger districts, but closing them could disrupt communities that rely on them for jobs and essential services.
Governor Tina Kotek has ordered school districts to stop shortening the school year to close budget gaps, arguing the state cannot afford to lose more instructional time. Educators say the order offers no new funding.
More than 300 Broward County school employees are facing layoffs as the district responds to an $80 million budget shortfall tied to declining enrollment and lost funding. Union leaders say the cuts will still affect students by reducing support services.
Several northern Illinois school districts are cutting staff as rising transportation, special education and health care costs collide with the loss of federal relief funds. District leaders say the growing deficits reflect a financial squeeze hitting schools of all sizes and income levels.
Improving attendance is one of the highest-return investments available to policymakers: An analysis suggests that raising high school graduation rates by just three percentage points could generate billions of dollars.
