THE BIG PICTURE
Over the last decade, the overall number of students enrolled in public schools in Maine has decreased. The proportion of students who are economically disadvantaged has increased during this time, which presents a challenge to schools and teachers, who must provide additional support services in order to ensure their students are healthy and prepared to learn. While white students still make up a majority of the student body statewide, it is important to note that student diversity in Maine schools is increasing.
- For the 2019-20 academic year, Maine had 179,986 public school students.
- Maine public school enrollment is down by about 450 students from the previous year and by 8,700 students—or 4.6%—since 2010.
- In 2019-20, there were 75,535 economically disadvantaged students enrolled in Maine public schools, comprising 42% of the overall student population.
- White students comprise 88% of Maine’s school-age population, compared to 93% ten years ago.