The impact of school closures on students, as illuminated by the recent findings of a research study discussed in Education Week, reveals a troubling narrative of educational inequity and long-term repercussions. Research conducted by Jeonghyeok Kim underscores that closures not only disrupt immediate academic progress but also perpetuate lasting disadvantages. Students affected by school closures experience persistent declines in test scores, attendance, and behavior, which extend well beyond their K-12 years, translating into lower college attendance rates, decreased completion rates, and diminished earnings in adulthood. Moreover, these effects are disproportionately borne by students of color and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, amplifying educational inequalities.  As school districts confront decisions around closures due to fiscal challenges or enrollment shifts, it is imperative to prioritize equity in planning and policy-making. Strategies must be devised to mitigate the impact of closures, ensuring that all students have equitable opportunities to thrive academically and economically despite such disruptions.

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