The Portland School District addresses the dropout problem through programs which fall into the following categories: (1) keeping students engaged in meaningful learning according to their needs, and counseling if necessary, (2) placing students appropriately; (3) monitoring their performance and (4) intervening to prevent and recover dropouts. Recommendations outline a system of education and youth training that considers the following: (1) the needs of families and children in order to ensure a good start in school; (2) basic academic skills and work maturity necessary for employment; (3) links among agencies and schools to meet developmental needs of children; (4) overcoming racism and lack of jobs; (5) individual learning needs of children; (6) dropout prevention; (7) personal support services, education, and employment and training programs for out-of-school youth; (8) expanded work experience opportunities for in-and-out-of-school youth; and (9) preparation for technological changes in the workplace. (LHW)