The Extent of Student Mobility Among Vulnerable Groups in California

Nonstructural student mobility—school changes not tied to grade-level promotion—is common and consequential yet remains underexamined in recent research. This paper analyzes the incidence, disparities, and predictors of nonstructural school mobility using longitudinal data from six demographically diverse California school districts, with attention to pre- and post-COVID-19 trends and differences by race/ethnicity and student vulnerability. By 5th grade, nearly half of all students have made at least one nonstructural move. Annually, about 9% move during summer and 6% midyear, illustrating persistent churn. While historically marginalized groups—including African American students, and students experiencing homelessness or foster care—exhibit higher rates of nonstructural school mobility other findings challenge common narratives. Latinx and vulnerable students (e.g., FRPL-eligible, EL-designated, or with disabilities) do not consistently display higher rates, and their school moves appear less responsive to factors often viewed as strategic, such as moving to a higher achievement school. These findings complicate prevailing narratives and underscore the need for targeted, evidence-based interventions. Addressing school mobility effectively requires understanding not only student characteristics, but also the structural constraints—like housing and neighborhood dynamics—that shape mobility decisions and could limit access to more advantaged school settings.