Concerned about the persistently high dropout rates from big-city secondary schools, education leaders are trying a new approach to increasing the graduation rate--multiple pathways to graduation. Multiple pathways initiatives are relatively new and far from proven. Even the most advanced examples face significant issues, i.e., the need to…

Surveys alcohol and drug-use behaviors in relation to HIV/AIDS risk among 212 youth in dropout-prevention programs. Alcohol and drug use and age of sexual initiation are significantly associated with high risk. HIV/AIDS-prevention programs need to target alcohol and drug use as important influences on risky sexual behavior. (MKA)

Describes the design and implementation of a peer-led sexually transmitted disease/human immunodeficiency virus prevention program for high school students in a dropout prevention program. Pre- and postintervention ratings of peers' effectiveness by teachers and students demonstrated an increase in awareness and discussion and an increase in…