A common argument against raising math course-taking requirements for all students is that it will cause more students to drop out of high school. But most students who drop out for academic reasons do so not because they are being "too challenged," but rather because they are not being challenged enough. It is important to raise the rigor and relevance of mathematics courses to keep students engaged and on track to graduation and postsecondary success. This paper stresses that: (1) Students do not feel motivated, particularly when enrolled in low-level courses; (2) Students are willing to work harder--but only if they are challenged; and (3) More rigorous graduation requirements--including more higher-level math courses--are not tied to higher drop out rates. (Contains 9 endnotes.)