Story perspectives

Texas sees record 76,600 student loss, 81% Hispanic enrollment drop.

5/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Texas Education Agency reported a loss of 76,613 students in 2025-26, the biggest non-pandemic decline in four decades.
Elementary grades caused 60% of the loss; Hispanic students accounted for 81% (?61,781 enrollments), while White and Black enrollments fell 1.9% and 0.4%.
Commissioner Mike Morath said lower birth rates, reduced net migration and charter, private and homeschooling options prompted Fort Worth ISD and Austin ISD to close schools and cut staff.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Census Bureau defines baby-boomers as born 1946-1964, with a 1957 peak of 4.3 million births. A post-boom decline in the 1960s-70s reduced school-age cohorts, and by 2025-26 the Texas Education Agency under Commissioner Mike Morath recorded a loss of 76,613 students, prompting district closures and funding reforms, reflecting the long-term impact of the baby-bust on public-school enrollment across the United States.

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Story summary

Texas Education Agency reported a loss of 76,613 students in 2025-26, the biggest non-pandemic decline in four decades.
Elementary grades caused 60% of the loss; Hispanic students accounted for 81% (?61,781 enrollments), while White and Black enrollments fell 1.9% and 0.4%.
Commissioner Mike Morath said lower birth rates, reduced net migration and charter, private and homeschooling options prompted Fort Worth ISD and Austin ISD to close schools and cut staff.

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