A project developed and implemented a model retention program to attempt to reduce by 20 percent the dropout rate at Crowley's Ridge Vocational Technical School (Arkansas). The major emphasis was on placing students in a vocational program that would maximize their chances for success. During the program: (1) all students were included in all phases of the project; (2) vocational counseling was provided to all students; (3) innovative vocational software programs were installed to assist administrators, counselors, assessment specialists, and vocational instructors in the strategies necessary for vocational career planning and student retention; (4) each student was provided with an individualized training plan based on entry-level requirements (developed from Department of Labor Standards); and (5) the assessment information was used to place students in appropriate training areas. The retention strategies implemented in this project resulted in significantly lower dropout rates, a high completion rate for students in vocational classes, and more specific and directed job placement activities after graduation. (The appendix includes a form letter and questionnaire sent to program dropouts to determine their reasons for noncompletion and a form used to assign students to programs.) (KC)