NCJ Number
122768
Date Published
1990
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This study of school dropouts in Montgomery County, Md., focused on how dropouts compared to other students, reasons students dropped out, what dropouts did after leaving school, and efforts of the school system to help students at risk of dropping out.
Abstract
The study examined those who dropped out of school in 1986-87 (1,067). Information sources included the school system database and interviews conducted with 508 of the students. Compared to other students in the county, dropouts tended to be older for their grade, had not been promoted and were more likely to have poorer academic performance. They were more likely to have been suspended from school and less likely to have participated in nonathletic extracurricular activities. Although the reasons given for dropping out of school varied, school experiences predominated. Followup data were available for approximately 60 percent of the dropouts; 26 percent had completed school either by returning and graduating, transferring to another school system, or by passing the high school equivalency exam. It is likely that the remaining 40 percent did not complete their schooling. Schools have done a number of things to help potential dropouts, including vocational guidance, mentoring, evening high school, summer school programs, and off-site alternative programs. Recommendations for improved dropout prevention are offered.