The uncertainty surround the reopening of schools in New York could create changes in enrollment for both private and public schools this fall, an analysis published on Tuesday by the Rockefeller Institute found. 

The report assessed the current status of public and private school enrollment, finding that last-minute choices be parents could create swings in the student population. That, in turn, could further complicate reopenings of schools as well as funding needs. 

"This is an incredibly challenging situation for everyone involved—children, parents, teachers, school administrators," said Rockefeller Institute Executive Director of Research Laura Schultz. "Policymakers will have to work diligently to make sure that those most in need of support are accounted for in reopening plans.”

School districts have individually prepared plans for in-classroom instruction as well as distancing learning to be conducted online, giving parents in many cases the option of keeping their child at home or sending them to school. Not all districts have provided that choice at all grade levels, and many parents given their employment status may not face that choice, either. 

At the same time, some parents may band together to share tutors or provide help with homework. At there could be a major change in enrollment for some schools if regions are required to go into all-virtual instruction due to an increase in coronavirus cases. 

The full analysis can be found here.