LA schools struggle with wildfires and funding cuts

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is facing serious challenges due to recent wildfires and changing federal policies under the Trump administration. A new report highlights how these issues will increase operational and financial pressures on the district in 2025 and beyond. The report, published by the nonprofit group GPSN, notes that LAUSD was already struggling with declining enrollment and financial pressure before these crises. The district's recent performance on state and federal exams has been mixed, though it is making some improvements compared to other areas in California. Experts warn that the wildfires have impacted more than 700,000 students and staff, causing school closures and safety concerns. Many families also face job losses and housing instability due to the fires, further worsening enrollment issues. LAUSD officials are concerned about potential cuts to federal funding, which typically represents around 10% of the district's budget. Recent actions by the Trump administration, including an executive order to shut down the U.S. Department of Education, raise fears about funding support for public schools. Despite these difficulties, the district has been proactive. LAUSD was able to quickly relocate two schools destroyed in the fires and provided food support to families during school closures. Some progress is seen in state test scores, indicating improvements in student performance. To strengthen recovery and address future challenges, LAUSD is urged to focus on enhancing social and academic services for students. Collaboration with local community groups is also recommended to ensure resources reach families effectively. The district's ability to adapt will be crucial as it navigates these ongoing challenges.