Inclusive STEM high schools (ISHSs) (where STEM is science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) admit students on the basis of interest rather than competitive examination. This study examines the central assumption behind these schools--that they provide students from subgroups underrepresented in STEM with experiences that equip them…

Since 2003, Austin Independent School District's (AISD) postsecondary enrollment has increased incrementally. Over the years, the percentages of students enrolling in 2-year institutions appear to account for the overall increase in postsecondary enrollment. After the upward tick in postsecondary enrollment for the Class of 2011, enrollment…

A gap year allows people to step off the usual educational or career path and reassess their future. According to people who have taken a gap year, the time away can be well worth it. This article can help a person decide whether to take a gap year and how to make the most of his time off. It describes what a gap year is, including its pros and…

At 15 to 19 years old, National Longitudinal Study-2 (NLTS2) youth are on the threshold of adulthood. As they look toward their future adult roles, what are their academic, occupational, and independence expectations? Multiple factors have been found to be associated with aspirations and expectations, including individual abilities and social…

The College Discovery and Development Program (C.D.D.P.) is a collaborative effort by the New York City Public Schools Division of High Schools and the City University of New York (CUNY). It is offered at one high school in each borough, and the program is linked with a college in the CUNY system. The C.D.D.P. offers students an enriched…

Using data from the High School and Beyond survey for 10,188 sophomores and 8,491 seniors, investigates the effect of spacing of births of siblings on high school attrition and postsecondary school attendance. Close spacing increases likelihood of dropping out of high school and decreases odds of attending postsecondary school. (SLD)

This action research project implemented and evaluated a program for increasing student engagement and retention through the use of authentic assessment and cooperative groups. The targeted population consisted of one sixth grade class in an elementary school and two ninth grade classes in a high school located in different communities in the far…