This handbook draws attention to the problem of dropouts in Massachusetts and offers solutions to increase the chances that all students will succeed. It suggests the need for systemic, school-based changes to foster learning environments that meet the emotional, social, physical, and cognitive needs of all students and staff. The handbook is comprised of a preface, three chapters, and a conclusion. Chapter 1, "The Scope of the Problem," includes the following sections: (1) "Who Is Dropping Out?"; (2) "Costs of Dropping Out"; (3) "Factors Related to Dropping Out"; and (4) "Myths and Realities of Dropping Out." Chapter 2, "Strategies to Reduce Dropouts," advocates the following approaches; (1) "Promote Systemic School Change," including the components of governance and leadership; school climate; academic, attendance, and discipline policies; school organization; instruction; student support services; staff development; and parent involvement; (2) "Support Diversity of Choice"; and (3) "Build Community Support." Chapter 3, "Planning for Change and Improvement," proposes a model comprising the following steps: (1) "Form a School Improvement Team"; (2) "Conduct a School-Community Needs Assessment"; (3) "Develop a Plan for Change and Improvement"; (4) "Gain Local Support and Approval of the Plan"; (5) "Implement the Plan"; and (6) "Evaluation and Replication." A list of 39 references is included. Resources on dropout prevention/restructuring and suggested readings are appended. (AF)