NCJ Number
149723
Journal
Catalyst Dated: (Winter 1992) Pages: 10-13
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the components and evaluation results for a pilot program in the Albany City School District designed to reduce the dropout rate through a case management program.
Abstract
In January 1989, the Albany City School District, in conjunction with the State University of New York at Albany, established a strategic planning committee. The committee's recommendations included the establishment of a case management program designed to help students at-risk of dropping out of high school. This led to the creation of a pilot project for inner-city youths between the ages of 14 and 21. It targeted students who had just returned to the mainstream high school from an alternative school, since students attempting to make this transition have a high dropout rate. The pilot project provided individualized attention to these students through their transition year. The program's four components were academic assistance, social services, employment services, and a computerized database resource file. The academic assistance and planning component evaluated, assisted, and monitored students' academic progress. The social services component -- through referral, provision, and coordination of services -- addressed the social pressures that interfered with students' educational goals. Students were also connected with short-term and long-term employment services. A computerized database resource file was developed to provide profiles of community resources that included referral criteria and services provided. Although the evaluation had limitations, findings were sufficiently reliable to show the program had a positive impact on increasing students' ability to complete the school year at the main campus. 3 references