For some youth, schools provide more structure and stability than any other source. Project Pioneer, a pilot project at a Wichita (Kansas) high school, helps create a support base for high risk youths entering high school. Success depends on extensive staff training and close counseling for potential dropouts. (MLH)

Georgia's drop-out rate is among the highest in the nation. Relying on statistics to design programs can be misleading. An in-depth study of South Georgia high schools shows the importance of developing drop-out programs for specific situations and students. The six schools helping to develop "Danny Dropout" and "Pine County High…

Introduces some possibilities for treating the condition of the misplaced and dislocated adolescent. Reviews the development of street academies as one attempt to address the problems of out-of-school youth. Concludes that systematic efforts are needed to serve an ignored population. (Author/WD)

One California high school's dropout intervention program succeeded because it was organized to meet student, not organizational needs. The program also had highly motivated administrators, outstanding teachers, student and teacher incentives, secure funding, and orientation toward positive self-image. (MLH)

The Hastings Alternative School Program (HASP), designed for at-risk students, operates within Hastings-on-Hudson (New York) High School's regular program. Students are given an external structure and set of expectations enforced by an accountability system stressing communication and student responsibility. Nearly half of all HASP students go on…

Risks are taken in establishing alternative school programs but they can be minimized by giving the proper attention to several critical factors. (Author)

New York City's Dropout Prevention Program's success depended on more than the usual commitment of resources, shared ideals, and dedicated people. A flexible planning framework was needed to overcome collaborators' mutual mistrust, identify common ground, and gain the support of line staff and top leadership in schools and in community…

Behavior problems demanding severe disciplinary actions are disruptive, eroding forces in classrooms. Effective group guidance programs have students keep track of concerns, problems, or difficulties encountered. The Problem Tracker, allowing students to record stressful or problematic situations, provides a buffer permitting more thoughtful…