Members of the educational community are increasingly concerned that the dropout rate is too high. However, concerned educators and researchers do not agree who should be included in the data to determine the dropout rate. National definitions are needed so that accurate comparisons can be made. There is also a need to assess the effectiveness of dropout programs. The most recent information and research on the dropout problem are provided in this document of 13 papers collected in 1986. The volume is divided into the following five parts: (1) Defining the Dropout, which presents efforts by and suggestions for large urban districts to produce a single definition of dropout; (2) Dropout Rates, which addresses the challenge of using the correct methodology to measure the rate accurately; (3) Correlates of Dropouts, which is an attempt to identify student attributes that are related to dropping out; (4) Characteristics of Successful Dropout Prevention or Intervention Programs; and (5) School Reform, which discusses the possible impact of new reforms, proposes a model program for at risk students, and offers some solutions for dealing with the dropout problem. The papers each contain a list of references. (VM)