Project VIII is an innovative behavioral science-oriented educational program for potential dropouts. It is designed to reduce the dropout rate in grades 9 through 12, increase attendance in grades 7 through 12, decrease discipline referrals and suspensions, increase reading and math achievement in grades 3 through 11, and improve the student's self-concept. Project VIII is a consortium funded under Title VIII Elementary Secondary Education Act, involving the Paducah Public Schools, the Louisville Public Schools, Indiana University, and Murray State University. The project components consist of the instructional component (English, mathematics, social studies, and reading) and the staff-development component (parent involvement, counseling, and health services). In Paducah, the program involves 85 students in grades 10 and 11 at the high school and 121 students in grades 7 through 9 at the junior high school. The elementary school is involved in the staff-development component. In Louisville, the program involves 110 students in grade 8 in the junior high school and 128 students in grade 9 in the senior high school. (Author/JM)