New York Public School Enrollment Declines as Families Explore Alternative Education

Public school enrollment across New York State has declined significantly over the past decade, according to recent research conducted by Cornell University. The study shows that more than 250,000 students have left the public school system statewide during the last 10 years.

Researchers point to several contributing factors, including demographic changes such as families having fewer children later in life, as well as shifts in learning patterns following the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, nearly 88 percent of school districts in New York have experienced enrollment declines.

However, the decrease is not solely due to a shrinking school-age population. An increasing number of families are opting for alternative education models, including charter schools and homeschooling.

Homeschooling parent QueeNia AsheeMa-At said she chose a flexible, hybrid education model for her children, combining at-home learning with a weekly cooperative program. She began homeschooling her oldest child more than 16 years ago and has continued ever since.

She noted that while homeschooling can bring challenges, many parents are encouraged by improvements they see in their children’s behavior, motivation, and academic engagement. According to her, the pandemic played a key role in helping families recognize which learning environments best suited their children.

Data from Cornell’s Program on Applied Demographics supports this trend. While public school enrollment dropped from approximately 3.1 million students to 2.8 million, enrollment in charter schools and homeschooling doubled during the same period. Charter school students now account for about 6.5 percent of total enrollment, while homeschooling represents roughly 1.8 percent.

Cornell researchers describe the trend as a cultural and social shift rather than a failure of public education. With more educational options available, families are increasingly choosing models that align with their values and children’s needs.

Experts say school districts may need to reassess how they allocate resources, manage aging facilities, and expand program offerings to adapt to changing enrollment patterns.

Despite the demands of homeschooling, AsheeMa-At said her experience shows that with commitment and determination, parents can successfully guide their children’s education when they find the right fit.