Early Identification of Potential Dropouts in the Saydel Consolidated School System

Abstract

The problem: Because of the high percentage of dropouts in the Saydel Consolidated School District this study was undertaken to determine what factors were involved in the decision of the dropout. The study involved individuals who had terminated their education during the past three school years 1969-70, 1970-71, and 1971-72. Procedure: To identify the similar characteristics shared by the individuals who had been high school dropouts during the years 1969-70, 1970-71, and 1971-72. To determine (by using information obtained from the cumulative record) if the similarities of each individual were consistent enough that it might have been possible to predict that these individuals were potential dropouts. Findings and conclusions: The decision of each individual to drop-out of school is related to a multiplicity of factors. The following factors appear to be the most useful predictors in identifying the potential dropout. (1)The attendance record of the individual from the elementary to the secondary level, (2)The age of the student as he enters the high school years, (3)The academic performance of the individual, (4)The occupational and educational levels of the parents, and (5)The grade level of the student at the termination of his schooling. Recommendations: The following should be done: (1)The cumulative record must contain more "personal" information about each individual. (2)The guidance department should serve as a mediator between school personnel, parents and the potential dropout. (3)Guidance personnel should work closely with elementary teachers in identifying potential dropouts. (4)Changes in curriculum to offer more relevent courses.