Effective Dropout Prevention and College Attendance Programs for Students Placed at Risk

Abstract

In this article, we review research on programs designed to reduce dropout rates and increase college attendance among at-risk students in middle and high schools. Two dropout prevention and 4 college attendance programs either fully or partially met the review's criteria for methodological adequacy of evaluation and replicability. The Coca-Cola Valued Youth Program and Achievement for Latinos through Academic Success demonstrated strong impacts of comprehensive programs to reduce dropout rates. Improved college attendance rates were documented for Upward Bound, SCORE, Project Advancement Via Individual Determination, and Graduation Really Achieves Dreams. In general, successful programs emphasized creating meaningful bonds between students and teachers, connecting students to an attainable future, giving students opportunities to work while in school, providing academic assistance, and giving students high-status roles in the school.