Taken from findings of federally financed ABC dropout prevention programs--ALAS (Achievement for Latinos through Academic Success), the Belief Academy, and Check & Connect--this report discusses the barriers and supports to effectively intervening and achieving school completion among high-risk students. The first section presents information on the extent of the dropout problem among high-risk youth and tentative information about effective prevention strategies. The following effective intervention elements are identified and discussed: long-term commitment; continuous monitoring; individualized focus; skill acquisition; collaboration across home, school, and community; and parent involvement. The second section includes a list and examples of common practices and policies that either support or alienate youth with disabilities at risk of dropping out of school. Assessment worksheets designed to stimulate discussion among educators are provided in the third section. Appendices further explain data, list and rank supportive and alienating practices and policies, and describe the three ABC projects. (CR)