New York City has seen its first increase in student enrollment at public schools in eight years, based on preliminary data. New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Education Chancellor David C. Banks today announced that for the 2023-2024 school year, the DOE has seen enrollment increase approximately 1%, or roughly 8,000 students.
This increase brings the total number of students registered in the DOE to approximately 915,000 and maintains New York City’s status as the nation's largest school district.
“When we say New York City is back, we are not just talking about our economy — we are talking about our communities and our entire city. And after eight years of declining enrollment, New York City public schools are back,” said Adams. “Chancellor Banks and our administration are focused on delivering the best education possible for our young New Yorkers by cutting through bureaucracy, expanding outreach, and making enrollment easier. New Yorkers are voting with their feet, and we are excited to see funding increase for so many of our public schools.”
The increase in enrollment is particularly significant as the Adams administration navigates the post-COVID-19 era without the benefit of federal stimulus funds. This year, approximately 57 percent of schools are expected to receive a total of $183 million — an average of $209,000 per school — in additional Fair Student Funding due to higher-than-projected enrollment.
Increased enrollment will also bolster the Adams administration’s advocacy for additional state and federal funding.
Last week, the DOE published its annual class size report, showing that the city is in compliance for this school year with the state’s new class size mandates. However, to maintain compliance as state law mandates smaller class sizes over the coming years, additional resources will be required.
The Adams administration will continue to advocate for state and federal funding to support students and families as the law is implemented.
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