Studies & Reports
There has been much research done on the state of education and the
dropout crisis in our state and around the country. The following are a
sample of that research.
Communities In Schools National Evaluation Policy Brief
July 2008 - “School-level” results announced, offer conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of Communities In Schools. Schools can not do it alone; Communities In Schools is proven to make a difference for children in the schools it serves. Communities In Schools is unique because of its coordinated approach. While many organizations are working to improve student outcomes, Communities In Schools, through coordination of services, is proven to be more effective.
Dropout Risk Factors and Exemplary Programs - a Technical Report
This study, conducted by the National Dropout Prevention Center/Network, and sponsored by Communities In Schools Inc., finds that there are multiple risk factors which increase the likelihood that students will drop out. The evidence clearly shows that dropout is always the result of a long process of disengagement that sometimes begins before the child enrolls in kindergarten. The report also provides information on 50 programs that were found to be effective in addressing these risk factors.
Washington Learns Final Report: World-Class, Learner Focused, Seamless Education
Our current education system was designed for the previous economy, and our students are falling behind international standards. As our economy and the world around us changes ever more dramatically, we must transform our education system in order to better prepare our children.
Dropout Rates and Graduation Statistics since 1993-94
By RCW 28A.175.010, the Legislature requires school districts to account for the educational progress of each of its students in Grades 9–12. This reporting requirement made it necessary for the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to collect a record with several data elements for every student in Grades 9–12. OSPI is required to report by school district the total number of dropouts and graduates by ethnicity, gender, grade level, and reason for dropping out.
Dropout Nation - April 17, 2006 TIME cover article
Time Magazine. The number of high school students who leave before graduating is higher--much higher--than you think. Inside one town's struggle to reverse the tide.
Child Trend Databank
Among youth ages 16 to 24, Hispanics accounted for 40 percent of high school dropouts in 2004. However, they only made up 17 percent of the total youth population. Data like this and more about high school dropout rates are described in the report.
"Reducing the Dropout Rate" by E. Gregory Woods
"Increasingly, it is being recognized that the issues of dropping out and dropout prevention cannot be separated from issues affecting our total economic and social structure. These issues include poverty, unemployment, discrimination, the role of the family, social values, the welfare cycle, child abuse, and drug abuse." --Peck, Law, and Mills 1987, p. 3 This study and more found at the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory.
