Photo: MattGush / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is experiencing a significant decline in student enrollment, attributed to ongoing immigration raids. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho has expressed concerns about the long-term effects on the district if the trend continues. As of the 2025–26 school year, LAUSD's enrollment stands at 392,654 students, a 4% decrease from the previous year, according to ABC7. The district also reported a notable decline in newcomer students, those born outside the United States, exacerbating existing challenges like falling birth rates and rising housing costs.
The impact of immigration enforcement is evident, with families experiencing fear and instability. Maribel, an undocumented mother, shared her struggles with ABC7, saying, "The children have fear that makes them not want to go out on the street." Her husband was deported to Guatemala, leaving her to consider returning with her daughter due to financial difficulties.
Superintendent Carvalho emphasized that the district lost 7,000 more students than anticipated, resulting in a potential $140 million loss in funding, as reported by LAist. This financial strain could impact classrooms, staffing, and programs.
The situation is not unique to Los Angeles, as other districts, like Chicago, also report enrollment drops amid increased immigration enforcement. Congressional Democrats have expressed concern over the raids' impact on students and have sought information from the U.S. Department of Education on measures to protect affected families, according to K12 Dive.
The decline in LAUSD enrollment reflects broader issues facing immigrant communities, with Superintendent Carvalho warning that without addressing these challenges, California's public schools will face long-term ramifications.