Using a Delphi approach, 10 experts identified 186 practices from the fields of transition and dropout prevention that would be effective with high-risk students, including those with mild disabilities. Rating these practices indicates that many prevention practices are important and feasible to implement. (SLD)

In a secondary analysis of a study involving 619 middle school students, a path model was tested to examine the effects of family and peer variables on adolescent drug use. Results suggest that peer drug use is a salient issue in adolescent drug use, and that family variables influence male and female adolescent drug use differently. (SLD)

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)

Presents a seven-step model that describes a cognitive and behavioral loop that may explain actions of some impulsive and out-of-control youngsters. Suggests some intervention strategies that take the cognitive loop into account and help the student work toward personal control. (SLD)

Assessed the effects of a proactive instructional approach to school-wide discipline in common areas of an urban elementary school of 555 students on the social interactions of students and referrals for disciplinary action. Results show a clear improvement in social behavior that was maintained throughout the experiment. (SLD)

Describes the Family Focus for School Success Project, a model program that provides education and support to language minority families in poverty and their children through comprehensive early intervention for children at risk of academic failure because of their home environments. An evaluation of the first year's efforts with 69 families…

Presents results of a study on extremely effective and ineffective elementary schools in the Netherlands involving 124 schools with high proportions of ethnic minority students. Findings show that schools with a high percentage of ethnic minority students are not necessarily ineffective. In the most effective schools, teachers spent more time on…

Results of a national survey completed by principals of 101 schools provide a comprehensive analysis of current trends in transition programs for adjudicated youth with disabilities in alternative school settings, effectiveness of transition program components, and obstacles to successful transitions. Although progress is being constrained by…

The middle school teacher is the first line of defense against dropout risk for students. This article presents a plan for teachers to design and conduct learning units that cure, rather than cause, further risk. The plan is supported by a model based on recent brain research that meshes student interests with curricular constraints and goals.…

This second part of a two-part essay shows how teachers, especially middle school teachers, can reduce academic risk. Two hypotheses are examined: (1) the more the classroom culture respects students, the more students respect the purposes, principles, and people in the classroom; and (2) assessment of learning must be fair and meaningful for all.…

Studied a pilot program to give preservice teachers a broader look at the lives of children by placing the teachers with community service agencies to work with staff serving low-income parents and children from diverse backgrounds. Preliminary evaluation indicates that most preservice teachers expanded their views about families served by social…

Studied after-school activities of low-income, at-risk Mexican American middle school students, and examined relationships between these activities and substance use. Results with almost 1,200 students show a general lack of participation in organized activities by these students. Those involved in unsupervised after-school activities outside the…

The perspective of the National Dropout Prevention Center is that the accomplishment of Goal Two of the National Education Goals, a high school graduation rate of at least 90%, is inextricably linked to Goals One and Three, school readiness and the opportunity for all to use their minds well. Research priorities for meeting these goals are…