High School Dropouts: A Critical Educational Issue Analytical Essay by Roxygrrl70

An examination of why students are dropping out of high school and what can be done to prevent it.
# 145732 | 2,606 words | 14 sources | APA | 2005 | US
Published on Nov 25, 2010 in Education (Theory) , Education (Social Issues) , Education (Jr High/High School)


$19.95 Buy and instantly download this paper now

Description:

This paper discusses the epidemic of students dropping out of high school, and aims to uncover the myriad reasons behind the trend. The paper examines the demographics of dropouts, students' motivations for dropping out, the possible consequences of their decision, and what is being done to prevent future dropouts. The paper asserts that students should be encouraged to stay in school to obtain a diploma, rather than dropping out and opting for a GED; studies show that for some, the chance of school age pregnancy is more likely, as is substance abuse. The paper adds that for schools with high dropout rates, especially in high poverty, high minority areas, school wide reform may be necessary. The paper concludes that it is very clear that school, home, and community collaborations can positively impact students and perhaps help them comprehend the importance of education and the consequences of dropping out.

From the Paper:

"The National Dropout Prevention Center details further consequences of dropping out. For instance, it isn't just the individual that suffers from not obtaining a high school diploma; the economy can also suffer from dropouts as well. Over $200 billion in lost earnings and tax revenue is lost for every year's class of dropouts. High school dropouts themselves can expect to earn, on average, approximately $10,000 less than their high school graduating peers. In the workplace today, 80% of adults with a bachelor's degree are employed, 60% of adults with a high school diploma are as well, but only 40% of high school dropouts are currently employed. As far as our nations crime rates are concerned, high school dropouts unfortunately contribute heavily. Of those who are currently incarcerated in prison, 75% are high school dropouts. Those with no diploma are 3.5 times more likely to be arrested in their lifetime. High school dropouts also have a death rate that is 2.5 times higher than those who have 13 or more years of education. These statistics may seem shocking, but dropping out of high school can have such consequences. Unfortunately it is highly unlikely that those who decide to dropout are aware of these consequences (http://www.dropoutprevention.org)."

Sample of Sources Used:

  • Abrams, L. & Haney, W. (2001). Accountability and the Grade 9 to 10 transition: the impact on attrition and retention rates. In G. Orfield (Ed.), Dropouts in america (pp. 181-205). Massachusets: Harvard Education Press
  • Beauvais, F., Chavez, E., Oetting, E., & Swaim, R. (1997). The effect of school dropout rates on estimates of adolescent substance use among three racial/ethnic groups. American Journal of Public Health, 87(1), 51-56
  • Boudett, K., Murnane, R., & Willett, J. (1995). Do high school dropouts benefit from obtaining a GED? Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis, 17(2), 133-147.
  • Christenson, S., Hansen, A., Lehr, C., & Sinclair, M. (2003). Moving beyond dropout towards school completion: an integrative review of data-based interventions. School Psychology Review, 32(3), 342-365.
  • Grossnickle, D (1986). High school dropouts: causes, consequences, and cure. Phi Delta Kappa Fastbacks, 242, 7-25.

Cite this Analytical Essay:

APA Format

High School Dropouts: A Critical Educational Issue (2010, November 25) Retrieved June 10, 2023, from https://www.academon.com/analytical-essay/high-school-dropouts-a-critical-educational-issue-145732/

MLA Format

"High School Dropouts: A Critical Educational Issue" 25 November 2010. Web. 10 June. 2023. <https://www.academon.com/analytical-essay/high-school-dropouts-a-critical-educational-issue-145732/>

Comments