Core Viewpoint - The report indicates that by 2025, many schools specifically for migrant children will have completed their historical mission, reflecting significant changes in population and policy conditions over the past 30 years [1][2]. Group 1: Background and Evolution - Migrant children's schools emerged in the early 1990s due to a surge in migrant workers and their children's educational needs, addressing the challenges posed by the "local enrollment" policy [2]. - As of the end of 2024, Shanghai will have only 33 migrant children's schools, with 22 of them ceasing admissions by the 2025 school year [2]. - Beijing retains fewer than 20 migrant children's schools, with the longest-running school completing its mission in 2024 [2]. Group 2: Policy Changes and Impacts - The gradual disappearance of migrant children's schools is linked to the implementation of new urbanization strategies and the promotion of public education [4]. - The 2024 action plan emphasizes the removal of residency restrictions in cities with populations under 3 million, reducing the number of cities with enrollment barriers for migrant children [4]. - The 2001 policy established that local governments should primarily manage migrant children's education, leading to a shift towards public schools [4]. Group 3: Contributions and Innovations - While many migrant children's schools had poor conditions and weak faculty, some attempted educational innovations tailored to the unique characteristics of migrant children [6][7]. - Examples include schools in Shanghai that initiated soccer programs and practical skills courses, demonstrating early adoption of labor education [6][7]. - A few migrant children's schools successfully transformed into licensed institutions, with graduates gaining admission to prestigious universities [6]. Group 4: Current Educational Landscape - Over 97% of migrant children are now enrolled in public or government-subsidized schools, reflecting improved access to education [9]. - Despite progress, challenges remain in aligning secondary education policies with those for compulsory education, particularly regarding residency requirements for enrollment [10]. - The need for a seamless transition from compulsory education to higher education remains a critical issue for the development of migrant children [10].

Core Viewpoint - The report indicates that by 2025, many schools specifically for migrant children will have completed their historical mission, marking a significant shift in China's education landscape [1][3]. Group 1: Background and Evolution - Migrant children's schools emerged in the early 1990s due to a surge in migrant workers and their children's educational needs, constrained by policies requiring local residency for school enrollment [2]. - Over 30 years, these schools addressed the educational challenges faced by migrant children, but changing demographics and policies have led to a decline in their numbers, with many schools expected to close by 2025 [3][4]. Group 2: Current Status and Future Outlook - As of 2024, Shanghai has only 33 migrant children's schools, with significant closures anticipated in the coming years, while Beijing retains fewer than 20 [3]. - The implementation of new urbanization strategies and the push for equitable public education have contributed to the decline of these schools, with many cities easing residency requirements for education [4]. Group 3: Contributions and Innovations - Despite their challenges, migrant children's schools have made historical contributions to educational equity, although many faced issues like poor conditions and high fees [5]. - Some schools have attempted innovative educational practices, such as integrating sports and vocational training, but these efforts remain fragmented and lack a cohesive model [6][7]. Group 4: Policy and Access - Over 97% of migrant children are now enrolled in public or government-subsidized schools, reflecting improvements in access to education [8]. - However, barriers still exist, such as residency requirements and the need for points-based enrollment systems, which complicate access for many migrant families [8][9]. Group 5: Transition to Secondary Education - The transition from compulsory education to secondary schooling remains a significant concern, with policies not yet fully aligned to support migrant children's continued education in urban areas [9]. - Future efforts must focus on reducing barriers in the transition process and enhancing support systems for migrant children to ensure their educational development [9]. Group 6: Societal Perspective - The need for basic public services, including education for migrant populations, is emphasized as a fundamental right rather than a special privilege [10].