Mesa Schools Declining Student Enrollment Amid Financial Challenges

According to a statement issued by Mesa Public Schools, "the number of graduating seniors exceeds incoming kindergarteners by 1,100, signaling a continuing trend of population shifts." Mesa Public Schools is facing a drop in enrollment, losing 1,500 students in the 2024-2025 school year and anticipating another 1,800 students to depart in the following year.

The issue is worsened by an 18% reduction in birth rates across the state in the past ten years, along with a 28% decrease in the birth rate in the City of Mesa. Consequently, the district is facing a decrease in funding, which directly affects its capacity to sustain current staffing levels.

In reaction to the budget crisis, Mesa Public Schools will eliminate positions, impacting both certified and classified employees. Almost 90% of the district's budget is allocated to employee salaries, which makes reducing staff a challenging yet essential choice.

The district anticipates a $16.7 million deficit, mainly due to the decline in student enrollment. Other elements leading to the deficit are higher utility expenses, escalating health insurance premiums, and the end of Proposition 123 funding in July 2025.

The district's strategic changes seek to balance the budget while preserving its educational objectives. As conditions evolve, Mesa Public Schools will keep collaborating closely with its staff and community to manage these challenging financial periods.

To enhance efficiency, Mesa Public Schools will revise its staffing structures, centralizing specific positions and modifying allocations for counseling and instructional coaching. Despite these difficulties, the district is dedicated to providing students with the necessary support for their success.