DC public school staff increased 7 times faster than enrollment, underscores trend
An audit of D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) conducted by the Office of the District of Columbia Auditor has revealed some concerning findings. Despite a significant increase in staffing levels within the district, student achievement levels still lag behind pre-pandemic levels for most students. The audit found that over a five-year period, while student enrollment grew by 2.6%, the number of staff increased by 19.5%. This has resulted in approximately 1,600 new positions being funded by the district since Fiscal Year 2020, and a staggering 43% increase in per-pupil spending.
While DCPS has defended its staffing strategy as a means to prioritize teachers and improve academic performance, the reality is that student achievement levels have not seen significant improvements. The most recent National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the nation’s report card, showed some progress since 2022 but student achievement levels in reading and math still fall below 2019 levels for most students. In D.C., students have shown better improvement compared to other urban districts, but they have not yet fully recovered to pre-pandemic achievement levels.
The audit’s findings are part of a larger trend seen across the country. The United States is one of the top spenders on per-pupil education funding among developed nations, yet there has been little measurable improvement in student achievement over the years. The influx of federal relief funds into public schools during the pandemic has led to a hiring spree, with many districts allocating the majority of their funding towards staff salaries and benefits rather than initiatives directly related to student achievement.
In response to these findings, DCPS has stated that they will work with the Office of the Chief Financial Officer to identify ways to improve data systems and ensure fiscal stewardship. However, the issue of increasing staffing levels without a corresponding increase in student achievement levels remains a pressing concern. The audit underscores the need for a more strategic approach to allocating resources and prioritizing initiatives that directly impact student outcomes.
As the education landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for school districts to reevaluate their spending priorities and ensure that resources are being directed towards initiatives that will drive meaningful improvements in student achievement. By addressing the disconnect between staffing levels and student outcomes, DCPS and other districts can work towards closing the achievement gap and providing all students with the opportunities they need to succeed.
