U.S. public schools are facing a major budget crunch as federal pandemic relief money runs out and enrollment numbers continue to drop. Many districts added staff during the Covid era to address urgent needs, but with fewer students and no extra funding, those positions are no longer sustainable. Watch the video above to learn why school systems are being forced to cut staff and what that means for students and communities. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:46 Enrollment decline 3:15 Increase in staff 5:14 Cutting the budget 9:50 Alternative solutions Produced by: Charlotte Morabito Edited by: Andrea Miller Animation: Mithra Krishnan, Jason Reginato Senior Director of Video: Lindsey Jacobson Additional Footage: Getty Images » Subscribe to CNBC: » Subscribe to CNBC TV: » Watch CNBC on the go with CNBC+: About CNBC: From 'Wall Street' to 'Main Street' to award winning original documentaries and Reality TV series, CNBC has you covered. Experience special sneak peeks of your favorite shows, exclusive video and more. Do you want a new career that’s higher-paying, more flexible or fulfilling? Take CNBC’s new online course - How to Change Careers and Be Happier at Work. Pre-register today and use coupon code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off $67 (+taxes and fees) through May 13, 2025: Connect with CNBC News Online Get the latest news: Follow CNBC on LinkedIn: Follow CNBC News on Instagram: Follow CNBC News on Facebook: Follow CNBC on Threads: Follow CNBC News on X: Follow CNBC on WhatsApp: #cnbc #PublicSchools Why Public Schools Are Going Broke In The U.S.