The problem of dropouts among special education students is summarized. After a brief overview of the problem, various studies are cited indicating a substantially higher incidence of dropping out of high school prior to program completion for handicapped than for non-handicapped students. Implications and recommendations for educational policy…

The main purpose of this document is to facilitate the reduction of the Georgia dropout problem by promoting collaboration and networking among educators, school administrators, and program directors. The information presented in this manual reflects the unique needs and goals of the State of Georgia. Nine sections comprise this text, which…

This directory on Iowa alternative programs for potential and actual dropouts begins with a brief summary of the state's dropout problem accompanied by nine references. Descriptions of some of the special programs and schools precede the full text of state legislation for funding and administering dropout programs. The next section, in outline…

The national dropout rate has remained at about 20% for the last decade. However, disparities in the definition of dropouts and in data collection have caused national dropout figures to vary. Researchers agree that students from areas of large minority populations with fewer English-speaking students, and those living in poverty are at risk of…

Data on dropout patterns in New York City Public Schools are provided and analyzed in order to identify issues to be addressed and contribute to the establishment of standards and criteria for program development. Part I introduces the key questions to be asked. In Part II, the term dropout is defined according to State Education guidelines; the…

This report describes the development, implementation and evaluation of a pilot project aimed at reducing factors that contribute to the high dropout rate among students in vocational education programs. The author is concerned with reducing such factors as absenteeism, tardiness, suspensions, class cutting, and with increasing student…

This paper provides a synthesis of research and theory directly related to retention of adult students. In the first of five major sections, readers are provided with a brief discussion of the nature and significance of the dropout-retention problem. Section 2 reviews research findings relating to who drops out and why. Sociodemographic,…

The purpose of this study was to identify, evaluate, and study in depth selected beliefs regarding teaching practices that could help industrial education teachers work more effectively to prevent dropouts. The objectives of this task were to: (1) propose and identify teaching practices that could prevent dropouts, (2) evaluate selected teaching…

This publication examines various aspects of the problem of potential school dropouts and techniques for teaching early career development. Its three sections are concerned with (1) identification and exploration of factors related to potential dropouts; (2) a comparison of the efficacy of treatment of classroom behavior management and group…

Bibliography of recent reports and articles selected by the Massachusetts Advocacy Center to highlight the relationship between school policies and practices and early school leaving. Selections reflect the belief that schools can change their practices to reduce dropout rate and, with remediation, improve the education of all students. (Author/PS)

Part One of this book discusses the curricular cases, curricular changes, needed changes in instructional delivery, and the visible and invisible dropout. Part Two provides new data on delinquency and dropouts, alternative centers for learning, noncurricular changes, immigrant and seasonal farm workers, and current prevention practices. This book…

Suggests that college administrators redirect their attention from studying attrition rates to enacting retention strategies based on responding to student needs and providing a more meaningful educational experience. Several studies dealing with the development of retention programs are reviewed. (JAC)

Some policy initiatives can be effective with some forms of dropout in some subpopulations. Reduction, rather than elimination of attrition, and transfer as a means of meeting student needs should be considered more seriously. (Author/MSE)

A management information system developed in Santa Clara County monitors K-12 students through their school years. The data reflect up-to-date demographics and changes in students' behaviors and characteristics. School districts are able to identify areas of program strengths and weaknesses so that changes can be made. (MLF)

Educator and researcher specializing in student retention, Tinto discusses own experience leaving doctoral program to join Peace Corps, reviews internal and external causes of attrition, characteristics of successful retention programs, and role of teaching in retention. Favors establishing a sense of community on campuses to enhance students'…