The Cushing (Oklahoma) Public Schools have had an annual dropout rate of 3.3% in recent years (40 students in 1995-96), but their goal is to decrease the number of dropouts by at least 50%. The school district has had several alternative programs for dropout reduction in place. Needs assessment has shown that all of Cushing's dropouts were in high school, and that many students have a particularly difficult time in grades eight and nine. The school district plans to reduce dropouts by having in place an alternative classroom for high-risk high school students, who will sign contracts specifying their individual graduation plans and behavioral requirements. Programs that are presently in place, and that will be continued if funds are available are: (1) Advantage Academies, alternative classes at the middle school and the high school that incorporate telecommunications, service learning, and arts in education; (2) the Student Alternative Center, an informal center at which the at-risk high school student can learn in a nonthreatening environment; (3) Peer-Leadership Retreats at which sessions on drug and alcohol resistance, leadership training, and group interaction provide opportunities for at-risk students; (4) after school enrichment for elementary school students 4 days a week; and (5) a summer school program for elementary school students. Evaluation of all these programs will be based on student performance and the reduction in risk factors. (SLD)