Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs not only prepare students for the workplace, but they have also been associated with better academic outcomes, including graduation rates (e.g., Castellano et al., 2012). This study is a longitudinal examination of the 2011-2012 first-time 9th grade cohort in the School District of Philadelphia. Across…

Ninth grade is a critical juncture for students--and can be a jarring transition. Even students a strong track record in the middle grades can experience academic difficulty, and those who enter high school with poor course grades, weak attendance, or behavior problems are especially at risk. An early misstep can have lasting implications:…

The Education for Employment Initiative is a cooperative effort of the School District of Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania Office of Employment Security, and the Private Industry Council to increase the employment opportunities for students and assist them in making the transition from school to work. In the 1987-88 school year, two locations were…

Examines the effects of high school choice on high risk students in four large urban school districts. Finds that with the exception of some magnet school programs, admissions procedures and program consequences usually operate to the detriment of students at risk. (FMW)

The Urban Career Education Center (UCEC) is an alternative experimental high school for students classified as potential dropouts. It began operating in 1972 founded on the premise that the real goal of a worthwhile education should be the preparation of students for a productive and satisfying life in their chosen careers. The UCEC model includes…