In 1984 the Edgewood and South San Antonio Independent School Districts implemented the Valued Youth Partnership Program (VYP). VYP identifies Hispanic junior high and high school students at high risk of dropping out and gives them an opportunity to serve as tutors of younger children. As they tutor, the older students also learn basic skills, develop new positive self-perceptions, and remain in school. Developed by the Intercultural Development Research Association (IDRA) and funded by Coca-Cola USA, VYP includes the following components: (1) classes for student tutors to develop communication, reading, and writing skills as well as practical awareness of child growth and development theories; (2) tutoring sessions at elementary schools; (3) field trips and awards banquets to expose students to opportunities in the broader community and increase self-esteem; (4) role modeling to expose students to successful adults; and (5) parental involvement to support project goals. Program evaluation results indicate that VYP has been successful. Of 100 students identified as being at high risk of dropping out, 94 remained in school, while 6 dropped out. Students' grades in English and mathematics improved and their overall grade point averages increased. Other benefits included a decrease in student absences and a decline in discipline referrals. (PS)