Early warning systems (EWS) using analytical tools that have been trained against prior years' data, can reliably predict dropout risk in individual students so that educators may intervene early to help avert this from happening. Risk profiles for dropouts aren't always useful since students often do not conform to the profiles. Researchers with the Montana Office of Public Instruction developed objective, evidence-based indicators that respond to student context. These indicators show when a student may be at risk and provide signs of when to intervene.