KIDS COUNT Indicator Brief: Reducing the High School Dropout Rate

Summary

While a variety of methods are used to calculate the nation's high school dropout rate, the results are the same: a growing number of young people are leaving school without graduating, putting themselves behind those with high school diplomas in terms of securing a stable economic future for themselves and their families. This brief outlines five strategies for reducing the number of teens who drop out before graduating from high school.

Table of Contents

• Adopt a long-term approach that begins with strengthening school readiness
• Enhance the holding power of schools, with an intensive focus on ninth grade
• Focus on the forces outside of school that contribute to dropping out
• Address the needs of those groups at highest risk of dropping out
• Strengthen the skills and understanding of the adults who affect teens’ motivation and ability to stay in school
• References
• Online Resources

Key Takeaway

Dropout Prevention Happens Inside And Outside Schools

The costs of dropping out of high school have never been higher, with many studies indicating that those without a high school diploma struggle with earning enough to adequately provide for themselves and their families. To reduce the dropout rate, especially among the most vulnerable populations, a mix of school-based and community-based strategies should be employed. These include:

• Bolstering school readiness
• Develop policies and programs within schools to help students succeed
• Address factors in the community that affect the likelihood of dropping out, especially for high risk groups
• Support parents and other adults who influence teens' lives