St. Louis, September 28, 2025
News Summary
In a significant move, the St. Louis Public Schools district has proposed closing 37 of its 68 schools due to declining enrollment and damage from a recent tornado. The district has experienced a drastic drop in student numbers, leading to financial strain and maintenance issues. As federal pandemic funding wanes and community concerns rise, stakeholders are urged to consider the implications of these closures on families and local neighborhoods. The decision aims to address both current needs and long-term challenges facing urban education.
St. Louis School District Proposes Closure of Over Half Its Schools Amid Declining Enrollment and Tornado Damage
The St. Louis Public Schools (SLPS) district has proposed a plan to close 37 out of its 68 schools in response to a significant decline in student enrollment and damage caused by a recent tornado. The district’s school board discussed these closures after a report indicated that the SLPS operates more than twice the number of schools necessary for its current student population.
St. Louis Public Schools has seen its enrollment drop dramatically over the decades, from 115,543 students in 1967 to only 18,122 last year. This trend reflects ongoing issues such as a rising school choice movement, a declining birthrate, and a population exodus to suburban areas. Additionally, national trends show that enrollment in public schools decreased by 20% or more at nearly one in twelve public schools between 2019 and 2023, with predictions of further enrollment declines through 2031.
The proposed closures come at a time when federal funding that helped schools during the COVID-19 pandemic is no longer available, placing additional financial strain on the district. Recent statistics suggest that the city’s population is projected to decrease by 7%, with a concerning 30% drop in student enrollment expected in the coming decade.
The tornado that recently struck St. Louis caused an estimated $63 million in damages, disrupting the education of nearly 3,000 students and prompting urgent discussions about which schools to close. Seven schools will not open this fall as a result of this catastrophe. The average age of the district’s schools is 79 years, with maintenance costs estimated at approximately $1.8 billion over the next 20 years. Closing 37 schools could potentially save the district around $42 million in the 2026-27 school year alone.
Community Concerns and Historical Context
Residents, particularly in historically Black neighborhoods, have voiced concerns regarding the proposed closures and their subsequent impacts on local communities. Community leaders and the teachers’ union have expressed worries over the psychological effects that such measures may have on families and students who may be displaced. Local council members highlighted the immediate needs arising from the tornado’s aftermath, urging that the focus be on addressing the crisis rather than discussing far-off school closures.
Historically, large-scale school closures in big cities, such as the record-breaking closures in Chicago in 2013, have resulted in increased violence, including fights and bullying among displaced students, raising further alarm for St. Louis residents.
The coalition that previously worked to save Sumner High School through the expansion of its arts curriculum reflects the community’s desire to maintain essential educational resources despite the looming threat of closures. As discussions about the future of the SLPS continue, it is crucial for stakeholders to consider the implications of potential school closures on community stability and student well-being.
Future of St. Louis Public Schools
Continued monitoring of enrollment trends and the assessment of school funding, resources, and maintenance will be crucial as the district navigates this complicated landscape. The proposed closures are not only a reflection of current needs but stem from changing demographics, schooling options, and economic realities impacting urban education in St. Louis.
FAQ Section
Why is the St. Louis School District proposing to close schools?
The district is facing a significant decline in enrollment, a shrinking budget, recent tornado damage, and a federal funding shortage, making it financially untenable to maintain all current schools.
How many schools are proposed to be closed?
The district proposes to close 37 out of its 68 schools, primarily targeting elementary and middle schools.
What impact has the tornado had on St. Louis schools?
The tornado caused an estimated $63 million in damages and affected the educational experience of nearly 3,000 students, prompting urgent discussions about school closures.
What are the enrollment trends in St. Louis Public Schools?
Enrollment in St. Louis Public Schools has dropped from 115,543 students in 1967 to 18,122 last year, with further declines expected due to demographic changes and increased school choice options.
What are the financial implications of the closures?
Closing schools could potentially save the district around $42 million in the 2026-27 school year and allow for the reallocation of funds towards necessary school improvements.
Key Features of St. Louis School Closures
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of schools proposed for closure | 37 out of 68 schools |
| Enrollment drop since 1967 | From 115,543 to 18,122 students |
| Projected enrollment decline over next decade | 30% |
| Estimated maintenance cost over the next 20 years | $1.8 billion |
| Potential savings from proposed closures | $42 million in 2026-27 |
| Damage from recent tornado | $63 million affecting 3,000 students |
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Additional Resources
- ABC News: Enrollment Falls as Districts Mull School Closures
- K-12 Dive: St. Louis Public Schools Propose School Closures
- Times Daily: Districts Across the US Considering School Closures
- Nashua Telegraph: School Closures Considered as Enrollment Falls
- Clinton Herald: Nationwide School Closure Discussions Amid Enrollment Declines
- Wikipedia: School Closure
- Google Search: School Closures in the US
- Google Scholar: School Closures Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Closures
- Google News: School Closures
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