ICE Surge Triggers 990 Student Transfers From Chelsea Schools; $5.7M Budget Hit Looms

WBUR reports nearly 1,000 student transfers out of Chelsea Public Schools since Oct. 2024 amid an ICE enforcement surge, with families citing fear of arrests near schools. About half of departing students are moving to other U.S. states, a quarter abroad, and the rest to other Massachusetts districts. Chelsea projects a net enrollment drop of roughly 300 students (5%), risking a $5.7M funding shortfall next year and potential staffing cuts. Superintendents say similar declines are emerging across Massachusetts, indicating a broader enforcement-driven exodus.