Using official school data, this study examined a sample of 447 at-risk students enrolled over a 10-year period in a youth-based mentoring program. The primary objective of the program was to ensure high school graduation. Participants were identified by indices of academic and school behaviors that rendered them less likely to graduate from high…

Since 1999, the Alberta Initiative for School Improvement (AISI) has provided funding to provincial school authorities for projects designed to improve student learning and performance. Conducted in three-year cycles, this unique approach has successfully helped to initiate approximately 1,600 grassroots projects led by school districts, teachers,…

Followed 9th grade teachers and their students as they began a teaming initiative to address urban educational challenges. Results showed that teaming meant the development of an ethos of collaboration manifested in everyday interactions among team members. This enhanced teachers' ability to transform their world of work, though their…

Youth who had dropped out of school (n=58) and their teachers (n=63) provided insight into key contextual factors that affect school dropout and general perceptions of school dropouts. Findings show significantly different perceptions between these groups about factors affecting school dropouts. (SLD)

Compared 103 students on global self-esteem and perceived life chances. Thirty-three were in a continuation high school, 20 participated in a mentoring program, and 50 were in a program for the academically gifted. The groups did not differ in global self-esteem, but students at the continuation school had lower scores for perceived life chances.…

Surveyed 1,339 adolescent students from low-to-moderate income homes regarding three curricular issues in an urban high school. The diverse student population thought that the school should promote cultural understanding and make a commitment to society, and also to prepare students for work. Ethnic and gender differences were found. (MMU)

Studies youths' motivation for school attendance. Survey results suggest that the motivations for high school dropouts were consistent with those of nondropouts. Comparisons showed both groups to be comparable in terms of the relative influence of socialization, extracurricular activities, and pleasing an authority. (MMU)

Determines effects of computerized science tutoring on the self-esteem of at-risk urban high school students. Through a case study/structured interview dyad, ascertains students' perceptions of the use of this technology in schools. Results indicate students' self-esteem improved from pre- to posttest on the Self-Esteem Index. (MMU)

Examined the nature of culture change that occurred at an alternative continuation high school for at-risk students (n=116) and changes in student attitudes over 2 years. Quantitative and qualitative data show the effectiveness of the school's Team Learning Projects model and the school's restructuring program. (SLD)

Using survey and interview data from 78 junior high and high school students in an alternative school, studies the ways school structures affect the experience of at-risk students. Seven dilemmas attributable to familiar school structures are examined, and implications for restructuring schools are discussed. (SLD)

Examined differences between academically talented female high school students who were not at risk (n=24) , and similar resilient at-risk students (n=17) on individual and environmental risk and protective factors. Hypotheses that the two groups would differ on risk factors, but not protective factors, were generally supported, suggesting a…

Evaluated two computer-assisted instructional programs designed to help students at risk earn credits for high school graduation and preparation for postsecondary education. Findings from two courses in an alternative high school illustrate research-based classroom features associated with a collaborative environment of state, district, and…

This chart describes high school completion rates for the United States for 18- through 24-year olds not currently enrolled in high school or lower grades. The 85.3% completion rate represented 77.9% of students with a diploma and 7.4% with an alternative completion. Completion rates are given by gender, race/ethnicity, family income, and…

Outcome data are provided for a national evaluation of Learn and Serve America School and Community-Based Programs and the Florida Learn and Serve program for 1995-96. Both national and Florida state data show positive effects, including improved attendance, improved academic achievement, and better attitudes for Learn and Serve participants. (SLD)

Studied the motivation of 60 black urban male tenth-graders, half achievers and half with lower achievement scores. Results suggest that if potential achievers are to be turned into achievers, teachers must focus on activities designed to foster intrinsic motivation. Techniques for working with low-income minority youth are outlined. (SLD)