Enrollment declines may strain schools across regions

Alabama public schools are projected to lose about 12,000 students, a record decline following last year’s losses, which could reduce state funding and eliminate 700–800 teaching positions; officials say attrition may absorb many cuts, but continued declines could force school closures and student relocations, especially in rural areas. The state is investigating where students have gone, with population shifts, fewer kindergartners and some movement to private schools contributing to the decline. In Oregon, Bend-La Pine School District reported 505 fewer students than a year ago—well below its forecast—raising the possibility of a shortfall in state funding. South Korea faces a longer-term demographic contraction, and a state-funded institute says the country should overhaul teacher training as student numbers fall while the teaching workforce remains comparatively large, putting pressure on education budgets.