School System in Crisis: Enrollment and Outcomes Deteriorate

The city’s public schools face severe challenges: declining student enrollment and record-high absenteeism rates signal deep systemic issues.

Much of the problem stems from political decisions in Albany and City Hall, where funding has been increased without accountability measures tied to student performance. Currently, the system’s budget exceeds $41 billion, with per-student spending twice the national average, yet results remain disappointing.

School employees and contractors have gained significant political influence, advocating for continued funding while outcomes for students stagnate. Elected officials often rely on campaign donations from these groups, further complicating accountability efforts.

Only the mayor has the power to effect meaningful reform. Past leaders like Michael Bloomberg took decisive actions, but recent administrations have fallen short. Mayor Eric Adams has acknowledged some initiatives such as NYC Reads and preserving specialized high schools but has not leveraged the full scope of mayoral authority to overhaul the system comprehensively.

Proposals to decentralize control and foster collaboration among parents, students, and educators have been proposed but lack evidence of effectiveness. For decades, attempts at decentralization, starting in 1969, have failed to bring about sustained improvement. Efforts like reducing class sizes or community schools have produced limited results or been mismanaged.

Campaigns continue to favor increasing education budgets and expanding programs, despite a lack of proven success. Candidates like Curtis Sliwa focus on redirecting funds into classrooms and maintaining selective high school tests, but do not offer clear metrics for success. Others, including Jim Walden, suggest merit pay and higher salaries but without detailed implementation plans.

Notably, federal initiatives such as tax credits for educational savings face opposition in New York, where school choice remains a contentious issue.

The upcoming 2026 state elections provide a critical opportunity to address entrenched political priorities and shift focus toward performance and efficiency in education.