NYC school budgets won’t face cuts next year (for now) despite falling enrollment

New York City schools will not face budget cuts for the 2026-27 school year despite declining enrollment, as Chancellor Kamar Samuels extends the 'hold harmless' policy initiated during the pandemic. The policy, which has cost $1.6 billion over six years, aims to maintain stability for schools even as enrollment drops below 800,000 students, with experts divided on its long-term effects.