Dropping Out of School
Many high school students around the world dream of graduating and beginning their lives as productive adults. However, these dreams can easily become derailed for many students due to personal, socio-economic, or familial circumstances. In the United States, around 11 percent of students drop out of high school before graduating, a rate that has been pushed down from recent memory where the dropout rate was much higher.
For many students, dropping out of school is a decision that seems logical and rational in the moment. They may face personal struggles such as homesickness or mental health issues that make it seem impossible to go to school on a daily basis. They may also feel overwhelmed by the amount of stress they’re feeling in the moment and believe that dropping out will ease the pressure they’re under. Or, some of these students may come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and dropping out of school could provide them an opportunity to start working and earning income.
However, the decision to drop out of school almost always has severe long-term consequences. The data shows that high school dropouts earn an average of 25 percent lower than those with a diploma, and that they’re three times more likely to be unemployed in their later years. In addition, they’re more likely to become teenage parents and more likely to end up in prison.
While there are short-term solutions available to students who have already dropped out of school, such as GED programs or taking classes at community colleges, these educational paths cannot replace the knowledge gained from a full high school experience. For students who are struggling to stay in school and are considering dropping out, there are a number of resources available to them.
Schools should attempt to create an environment that is supportive and understanding of the various struggles that students face. This includes having counselors and social workers available who can talk to the students and provide them with resources and support. In addition, schools can create programs that support students during their most difficult times, such as peer mentoring, tutoring services, or financial support.
Schools should also recognize the role that socio-economic and familial circumstances play in students’ decision to drop out. These students should be provided with wraparound services to help them cope with their problems and ensure that they can remain in school and ultimately receive their diploma.
Dropping out of school is a major decision that carries lifelong consequences. Students should be aware of the potential dangers that come with this choice and proactively seek the resources available to them. With proper support, interventions, and guidance, they can remain in school and realize their dreams of achieving a successful future.