Argues that schools, denying the existence of gay and lesbian youth, have failed to meet their educational and social service needs. Presents two models: Project 10, a Los Angeles dropout prevention program offering education, counseling, and support services; and the Harvey Milk School, an alternative New York high school. (SK)

A study of predictors of academic withdrawal among American Indian medical students found the characteristics of those withdrawing to include lower age, larger number of siblings, attendance at reservation schools, poorer academic preparation, excessive family responsibilities, and encounters with cultural misperceptions. (MSE)

As part of the campus concern with retention, California State University at Long Beach developed intervention strategies to work with students on academic probation. The students who participated in this mandatory, long-term, comprehensive program made more significant and steady progress compared with control populations who used other services.…

Reports findings from an exploratory investigation of a comparatively low dropout rate in a predominantly Mexican American school district (Calexico, California). Although many features contribute to the district's ability to retain students, these are best understood as interrelated parts of a complex system. The most important factor appears to…

Presents the effects of intergenerational family patterns on the student's adaptation to the college environment. The discussion of two case studies illustrates the application of a Bowenian perspective of student retention issues to preventive and remedial programs. Proposes the advantages and disadvantages of an intergenerational approach to…

Best way to prevent high school students from dropping out is to address problems at elementary or middle school. At-risk students do not differ greatly from other middle-school students but need specific individualized assistance with academic skills and warm, nurturing advocate to help build self-esteem and achieve success in school work. Middle…

Studies Kennedy-King College's low level of persistence among African-American "nontraditional" male students, and the resulting high rate of departure before completing specified goals. Proposes a model of persistence to develop modes of action, program enhancements, and activities within the college to increase persistence level. (24…

Determined the prevalence of health-risk behaviors among Texas high school students attending dropout prevention/recovery alternative schools. Student surveys indicated that a substantial number participated in behaviors that placed them at acute or chronic health risk. There were differences in prevalence of risk behaviors by gender,…

Reviews two general classes of strategies designed to reduce premature attrition and enhance treatment. Research on psychotherapy preparatory techniques indicates that these educational techniques are effective in reducing early-treatment attrition and may be especially effective with populations at high risk for dropout. (Author/GCP)

Thirty-nine students in an undergraduate educational psychology course identified and organized their core goals into ten goal domains. They then identified semester subgoals and tracked their time in relation to their goals. Results suggest that courses intended to increase student retention should use activities that help students identify their…

After a violent incident just outside an Austin (Texas) middle school, the principal and her staff decided that the problem of gangs could not be resolved by merely banning gang colors and signing. Special clubs, community volunteers, and a no-failure policy helped make students less vulnerable to gang membership. (MLH)

Investigated the effects of early participation in the Chicago Child-Parent Center and Expansion Program on school dropout. Comparison of low-income children from program sites and comparison sites indicates that preschool participation relates to reduction in dropout rate. Participation for 5 or 6 years relates to reduction in early school…

Three retention and enrollment management experts share their most effective innovations and best practices that have achieved cost-effective results. Tables provide data on dropout rates, graduation rates, and results of a student satisfaction rating survey of four-year colleges and universities. (DB)

Comprehensive clinical programs for teenage mothers and their children have been a promising intervention to improve outcomes of teenage childbearing and parenting. Evaluations in this study reported moderate success in preventing repeat pregnancies, continuing education, and improving health care. It is concluded that increased support and…

It used to be that students who dropped out were considered lazy and unmotivated. Some students were actually pushed out and encouraged to leave, as if this solves the problem! While teachers blame kids for dropping out, kids blame an educational system "gone bad." Dropping out is no longer viewed as solely a student problem, but rather a problem…