This report is the result of taped interviews with 115 Alaskan teenage women who have dropped out of "regular" public school. Two results of the study stand out: first, the majority of the students wanted a diploma, but nonetheless felt compelled to drop out; second (the reason most girls gave for dropping out): no one cared. However, most of the young people expressed appreciation and enthusiasm for the education and support they were receiving from the alternative schools to which many of these girls turned after they dropped out. Such schools address four major factors which caused the girls to drop out in the first place: (1) abuse and neglect; (2) stereotyping and discrimination; (3) low self-esteem; and (4) isolation and alienation. As a consequence of this research, the report provides three sets of recommendations, addressed respectively to the state legislature, to the Department of Education and the University of Alaska, and to the school districts of Alaska. In summary, the report emphasizes the importance of having adults act as advocates for a child, keeping track of her academic progress, her social relationships, and her health. It also calls for a more personal, flexible school environment that encourages such attention. Interview questions are appended and references are included. (TE)