Outlines 10 rules for reducing the student dropout rate. An important component is the establishment of a program that is well funded and staffed and has clearly defined goals that will help in the reduction of student dropouts. (MD)

Programs to encourage dropouts to finish school need to overcome the roadblocks of credits, time, and support services. Highlights nine specific hallmarks of effective dropout prevention programs gleaned from a study of 479 programs titled: "School Dropouts: Survey of Local Programs." (MLF)

To help administrators answer important questions about student needs and dropout program effectiveness, this article offers a basic checklist of recommended characteristics, including a cohesive, systemwide strategy; clearly identified at-risk students; well-clarified roles; caring attitudes toward students; tough and compassionate staff; and…

Risks are taken in establishing alternative school programs but they can be minimized by giving the proper attention to several critical factors. (Author)

A high school equivalency program held in a Baltimore, Maryland, housing project reported that last year 67 percent of the women who took the test passed it. Key components are computer-assisted instruction and computer monitoring of the womens' progress. Strategies for setting up such a program are offered. (MLF)

Experiences from dropout programs that serve at-risk students at a North Carolina school district identify planning and management considerations. Among these are that dropout rates and other measures of success must be standardized; and staff selection, duty assignments, and workloads are different for at-risk educators because of inordinate time…

Outlines high school dropout programs developed through public/private partnerships that are successfully helping dropouts and at-risk students develop their potential. Also describes the educational system that corporate businesses have developed to educate employees in an effort to make up for deficiencies resulting from their education in the…

It's up to school board members to communicate they want schools to improve academic scores and standards while increasing their holding power. Outlines ways superintendents can act to reinforce such policy. (MD)

Discusses alternative programs and schools visited by the Hispanic Dropout Project. Notes a pervasive "disconnect" between alternative programs and "regular" schools, and outlines lessons alternative programs have to offer traditional schools. (SR)