What music teachers can do to prevent students from dropping out of band is discussed. Suggestions include talking with the child, working with other teachers, getting support from parents, and taking a good look at the music program itself. (RM)

Although the national reports have not focused on the problem, effective schools must address the needs of potential school dropouts. The author rebuts some of the common arguments against dropout prevention programs, arguing that successful dropout prevention is one of the key indicators of overall school effectiveness. (Author/TE)

Discusses characteristics and behavior patterns of students with disabilities who are most likely to drop out. Explores the impact of educational reform's emphasis on academics and on preparing all student with disabilities for employment and independent living, and identifies strategies to overcome the special education dropout problem. (CR)

High-risk students, a new segment of the baccalaureate nursing student population, are being admitted in increasing numbers. Faculty must learn to identify this group, and institutions must search for strategies to decrease the attrition rate within it. (MSE)

Argues that schools, denying the existence of gay and lesbian youth, have failed to meet their educational and social service needs. Presents two models: Project 10, a Los Angeles dropout prevention program offering education, counseling, and support services; and the Harvey Milk School, an alternative New York high school. (SK)

This book, based on a discussion at an interactive videoconference, examines student diversity issues and retention strategies in the context of the Sallie Mae National Retention Project that addressed state expectations for more accountability and federal reporting requirements on graduation and retention. The eight chapters focus on equity as it…

This state education plan is designed to improve the effectiveness and quality of the educational experiences of all students in Minnesota. Across-the-board improvements and major reforms in policies, programs, and practices are needed to restructure the way schools operate, children are taught, and parents and community members are involved in…

The retention of African-American students on college campuses is examined in this study conducted at Oberlin College, Ohio, a school which has been fairly successful in retaining African-American students over the past 20 years. The study addressed the needs of African-American students by looking at the college's institutional symbols. In…

Discusses dropping out from a historical and theoretical perspective. Suggests that although the sociocultural context in which schools operate has changed drastically, the solutions sought to educational problems attempt to re-create the good schools of the 1950s. Notes specific areas where school change has not kept pace with social change,…

Argues that most dropout prevention attempts have been hampered by the lack of an unbiased, coherent and easily accessible source of data on the total and at risk populations of young people. Provides preliminary data on several groups of students not characterized by traditional dropout descriptors. Offers recommendations for improvement in…

Horizon High School combats student dropout rates in Bakersfield (California) by maintaining a small enrollment, high community involvement, close student-teacher relationships, flexible scheduling, and attention to individual students' educational needs and interests. Student attendance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores are…

Educational excellence is necessary to develop productive citizens and a productive work force. To achieve this excellence, schools must address the learning styles and motivations of students; the guidance and counseling staff can aid in meeting this challenge. (JOW)

The authors of the book "Reducing the Risk: Schools as Communities of Support" are interviewed. The book proposes a research-based theory of dropout prevention that stresses the importance of school membership and networks of support. (TE)

Discusses the importance of educating the growing Hispanic population in Catholic schools, highlighting such effects of the high drop-out rate as underemployment, poorer health, debilitated self-esteem, decreased political participation, and increased criminal behavior. Provides examples of techniques and programs that help keep Hispanic students…

This paper addresses educational reform as it affects dropouts, minorities, diverse cultures, training programs, and community-based education. Effective dropout-prevention models are presented that address the needs of at-risk populations. The author states that much dropout prevention and reclamation takes place off of school district campuses…