This report reviews the characteristics of students who are most likely to drop out of school. Most studies have found that dropping out is related to risk factors in four different domains: individual, academic, family-related, and school-related. Local [Miami-Dade County Public Schools] M-DCPS District data were used to examine certain demographic and academic factors as they relate to student dropout status. The findings corroborate those in the literature, where high dropout rates were found for non-Hispanic Black students, students eligible for free/reduced price lunch, and students with disabilities. Additionally, students who were retained or were chronically absent were also found to be at a higher risk of dropout than their counterparts. Studies in other districts/states conducted on the impact of prevention programs on dropout rates suggest that some programs have a small positive effect on students' dropout rates. Overall, findings indicate that quality of program implementation is often more important than the specific type of program in which students participate. Furthermore, some studies have found that students benefit equally from participation in dropout prevention programs regardless of their gender and ethnicity. Strategies that have been widely accepted as effective components of dropout prevention programs are also summarized in this report.