Nine distinct programs aimed at reducing the dropout rate and bringing "at-risk" students back into the educational mainstream are described in this publication. The document first notes the social and economic costs to the nation of students dropping out before completing high school. The report then describes changes in Wisconsin's attendance law; an early intervention program initiated by the Norfolk (Virginia) Public Schools; the "Adopt-a-Student" program in Los Angeles Unified School District's Fremont High School; projects run by the Summer Training and Education Program (STEP) in Boston, Seattle, Portland (Oregon), San Diego, Fresno, and New York; an alternative high school program run by Newark (Ohio) High School; dropout recovery programs operating in Los Angeles and Duval County, Florida; and federal efforts through the Dropout Prevention and Reentry Act of 1986 and the Job Training Partnership Act. Successful programs appear to have low student-adult ratios, are offered at sites away from regular programs, provide vocational training, combine school with work, and provide such services as counseling, day care, and medical care. Questions that school boards can ask when assessing their own district's dropout policies are provided. (PGD)