Reducing the High School Dropout Rate

By the Annie E. Casey Foundation

July 1, 2009

Summary

Too many students, especially those in urban school districts, are leaving school without the knowledge and skills they need to meet the demands of 21st century workplaces and communities. The result is a pattern of increased economic marginalization for those Americans with the least education – estimated at an average lost income of $400,000 between the ages of 18 and 64. 

Key Takeaway

In 2007, there were 1.2 million dropouts in the U.S., and the nation’s dropout rate was 7%.

High school dropouts experience an average lost income of $400,000 between the ages of 18 and 64.

Findings & Stats

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