Outlines 10 rules for reducing the student dropout rate. An important component is the establishment of a program that is well funded and staffed and has clearly defined goals that will help in the reduction of student dropouts. (MD)

A program that gives high school freshmen extra staff support was participated in by 30 potential dropouts. Compared to a control group, these students earned higher grade point averages, were truant less frequently, and only one dropped out of school, whereas seven of the control group dropped out. (MLF)

Describes a program developed to help would-be dropouts at the junior and senior high school level. Two important components of the program are that staff work with no more than two students at a time and that staff members volunteer to take part in the program. (MD)

At Albuquerque's visually appealing New Futures School, which combines academics with parenthood training and day care services, approximately 75 percent of pregnant teens and teenage mothers enrolled obtain a high school diploma. Compared with traditional schooling, few rules apply, except required prenatal care and no fighting. The newborns also…

Programs to encourage dropouts to finish school need to overcome the roadblocks of credits, time, and support services. Highlights nine specific hallmarks of effective dropout prevention programs gleaned from a study of 479 programs titled: "School Dropouts: Survey of Local Programs." (MLF)

Brief descriptions of what four school systems are doing to keep students in school or get them back once they have dropped out. The systems are located in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Washoe County, Nevada; Renton, Washington; and Central York School District, Pennsylvania. (MLF)

To help administrators answer important questions about student needs and dropout program effectiveness, this article offers a basic checklist of recommended characteristics, including a cohesive, systemwide strategy; clearly identified at-risk students; well-clarified roles; caring attitudes toward students; tough and compassionate staff; and…

Principal Charles E. Mingo is working to revolutionize Du Sable High School in Chicago located near the nation's largest public housing development. Mingo and his staff have reduced truancy, doubled the percentage of graduates, and started an alternative school for dropouts. (MLF)