The Florida school closure epidemic is being caused by declining birthrates, people leaving the state because of the high cost of living, and dollars and students going to private and charter schools, reports Pensecola News Journal:
“Our public schools are in crisis right now in Florida,” said Demaris Allen, executive director for Families for Strong Public Schools. “We are seeing it hit a point where they can’t function under the shortages they have been given.”
Miami-Dade County is weighing closing or repurposing nine schools ahead of the upcoming academic year.
Escambia County is considering closing and consolidating schools, as well as reducing staff because of an $18 million shortfall.
Orange County in Orlando plans on closing seven, citing a drop of 7,000 students in one year that led to a $41 million loss in state funding.
Hillsborough County announced a right-sizing plan that will close three campuses.
Pinellas County is closing two schools.
Duval County is shuttering or consolidating four schools but delayed two others after parents pushed back.
Palm Beach County reported its first significant decline with a drop of 7,515 public school pupils this school year, and more than 3,000 expected in the fall.
The state allocates on average $8,000 to $9,000 per student to districts. Broward lost a staggering 10,000 students in one year and the loss wiped out $90 million in funds.
(Source: Pensecola News Journal)