Why Richardson schools are losing students

Forest Lane Academy Principal DeMarcus Goree-Watkins walk by a playground at the academy, Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Dallas. The school keeps losing students as families get priced out of the neighborhood.Every time Nichon Leonard’s rent crept up, it meant another sacrifice. The mother of two hit pause on pursuing an associate degree. She scrimped on groceries.

A confluence of factors is causing budget pains for districts across Texas this year. The Legislature hasn’t increased the base amount it provides per-student since 2019. Attempts to do so in recent sessions were ensnared in aFederal pandemic aid that funneled billions to public schools is expiring, while inflation has made everything from bus fuel to insurance more expensive. Meanwhile, birth rates are steadily declining — and families are moving.

An apartment complex is seen near Forest Lane Academy, Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Dallas. The school keeps losing students as families get priced out of the neighborhood.Dallas City Councilwoman Kathy Stewart, whose district includes Forest Lane, said she’s concerned about the ramifications of less affordable housing.

Victoria Smith, 38, moved to an apartment near Forest Lane Academy with her three boys in 2012. She paid about $800 in rent. But she said her monthly payments kept rising, especially after 2020. The liaison had organized coat and food drives, while also pulling kids into small groups to work through anxiety or bullying. Those duties got piled onto other staff members’ plates.

Texas only allows rent control if a city’s governing body determines there’s a housing emergency caused by a disaster. Even then, the decision to implement this kind of policy requires the governor’s approval.

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