ALBERTO CARVALHO, the superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), has issued stark statements about declining student enrollment, directly linking it to fear stemming from federal immigration enforcement actions. Carvalho said that thousands of students are not attending school due to anxieties surrounding deportation operations.
According to LAUSD officials, the district’s overall enrollment decreased by 4% compared to last year. Considering the district serves approximately 429,000 students, this translates to more than 17,000 fewer children enrolled.
Carvalho expressed concerns about these operations stating: “These fears are now exacerbating pre-existing factors that were already driving statewide enrollment declines — including falling birth rates, rising housing costs, and broader economic pressures.” He added further that the presence of fear makes it less likely for families to enroll or remain in public schools.
The superintendent also warned of long-term consequences if such issues are not addressed. “When families are afraid to be seen, or when they cannot afford to remain in their communities, they are less likely to enroll, re-enroll, or stay in public schools,” he indicated regarding the specific impact on LAUSD enrollment. This warning comes with a statement that failure to confront these problems could lead to serious negative effects for education.
Carvalho emphasized his district’s commitment despite the complex factors behind falling student numbers: “Our responsibility is to ensure every child — regardless of where they were born — feels safe in our schools.” He reiterated this position, stating LAUSD supports all immigrant communities.
